Los Angeles rewards flexible airport choice and shoulder-season timing with better fares.
Hollywood awards season and major summer events can push Los Angeles fares up quickly, while late January through March is usually where long-haul value appears. If your dates are open by a few days, west-coast pricing swings are often large enough to save hundreds on intercontinental tickets.
LAX is the main gateway, but you can also consider Burbank (BUR) or Long Beach (LGB) for easier domestic arrivals with shorter curbside waits. From LAX, the FlyAway bus to Union Station is often the most predictable transfer option when freeway traffic is heavy.
Airline competition is intense on Los Angeles routes: transatlantic traffic is split across US and UK carriers, while Pacific links are led by Japanese and US operators. Before booking, check whether your fare includes bags and seat selection - base prices to Los Angeles can look low, then climb fast once extras are added.
Late January through March is usually the best-value period for Los Angeles. A second softer window often appears in early November before Thanksgiving demand starts. Mid-summer and Christmas-New Year are usually the most expensive periods.
Most nonstop London to Los Angeles flights take roughly 11 to 12 hours westbound. Return flights to London are usually shorter because of tailwinds. One-stop itineraries can be cheaper on some dates but normally add several hours.
Most UK and many EU passport holders travel under the US Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA. If your passport is not eligible for that program, you need a US visa before travel. Always check current US entry rules before booking.
