Southern California, Los Angeles is undisputedly one of the world’s largest and most important metropolitan regions. Whether for business or pleasure, LA sees millions of annual visitors drawn by its thriving economy, iconic attractions, and near-perfect climate. However, navigating the region’s major commercial airports can often involve lengthy delays and tedious processes that cut into valuable travel time!
While LAX accommodates the majority of commercial flights landing in the city, there are also several private airports in the Los Angeles area designed specifically for smaller private jets and aircraft. Whether you’re arriving in a Bombardier, Cessna, Dassault, Embraer, Gulfstream, Hawker, or Pilatus, you get to fly in while relaxing on a Jetbed and bypass the bustling check-in counters and baggage carousels of larger airports! How nice is that?
Private airstrips deliver a seamless boarding experience from the moment your aircraft touches down. With on-field services catering to every need, these private runways provide a haven of privacy and convenience that your busy travel schedules demand.
In this post, we explore some of the top private airports for private jets found throughout LA, Orange County, and surrounding communities. From charming coastal fields to idyllic inland air strips, each facility grants stress-free arrival and departure from this epicenter of American business and leisure travel. Join us here on the Jetbed blog for a tour of LA’s best private aviation options!
7 Private Airports in Los Angeles
Santa Monica Airport (SMO)
Located just a few miles from downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica Airport is one of the most convenient private airports in LA for those traveling to or from the city. Operated by private fixed base operators, SMO offers amenities you won’t find at commercial airports like LAX such as valet parking right outside the FBO.
The passenger terminal has a relaxing lounge with free WiFi. Fuel, catering, and ground transportation like luxury cars and SUVs are all available. With its proximity to LA, Santa Monica Airport is ideal for skipping LAX traffic and taking quick private jet flights during busy travel times.
Whiteman Airport (WHP)
Situated in the San Fernando Valley community of Pacoima, Whiteman Airport is one of the busiest general aviation airports in California. While smaller than other LA airports, WHP packs a full service punch with maintenance, charter, and aircraft management companies based on field.
The passenger terminal grants easy access to and from aircraft with a cozy cabin-like atmosphere. On-field services ensure a seamless boarding process from arrival to takeoff. Just a 15 minute drive from downtown LA, Whiteman is a top airport for those needing quick access to Northern LA or the Hollywood Hills.
Van Nuys Airport (VNY)
As one of the major airports serving the San Fernando Valley, Van Nuys Airport welcomes a variety of private aircraft. VNY, 15 minutes north of West Hollywood and 20 minutes from Burbank, offers an alternative to larger commercial airports.
Its fixed base operators provide everything needed from private hangars to catering. Spacious lounges allow guests to relax in style pre- and post-flight. Car rental is on-site for seamless mobility around the Valley and beyond. With nearly 100,000 annual aircraft operations, Van Nuys delivers efficient service near key areas of LA.
John Wayne Airport (SNA)
While better known as Santa Ana’s commercial airport, John Wayne Airport also caters to many private jet flights each year. Situated in Orange County just south of Newport Beach, SNA offers a refreshing coastal atmosphere change of pace from LA.
Fixed based operators like Clay Lacy Aviation greet flyers with comfortable lobbies, free internet, and amenities. With nearby desert and beaches, SNA acts as a perfect departure point for journeys beyond urban LA. Whether flying for work or leisure, John Wayne delivers upscale accessibility near Southern California’s coast.
Long Beach Airport (LGB)
Long Beach Airport, overshadowed by Los Angeles, is an international gateway for private aviation, with two fixed base operators and an 8,500-foot runway for large private jets.
Ample parking, jet fuel, and pilot lounges ensure a convenient experience. The passenger terminal feels akin to luxury private clubs with spacious seating. Nearby hotels and marinas connected by shuttle integrate work and play in this coastal California city.
Hollywoord Burbank Airport (BUR)
Conveniently situated just outside Burbank, Hollywood Burbank (formerly called Bob Hope) Airport carries a steady stream of private aircraft. BUR is a major reliever airport for Greater Los Angeles, attracting traffic from celebrities and moguls avoiding LAX. Its terminals and lounges feel plush like a Hollywood private club.
Exceptional maintenance, catering, and rental car options ensure a memorable experience. Hollywood Burbank Airport’s quick turnarounds suit those slipping in and out of nearby production studios in Burbank and Hollywood.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
While known predominantly as a popular airport with much commercial traffic, LAX also caters to some private aviation through specific Fixed Base Operators. Located in Westchester, operators like Jet Aviation provide private terminals removed from the bustle of the main terminals.
Private customs declarations and U.S. border preclearance grants international access. On-field services, hangars, and lounges make LAX a viable option when venturing into larger jets. LAX offers proximity to LA for private jet charters, albeit with some commercial airport elements to tolerate.
Los Angeles is home to a wide array of dynamic private airports.
The Los Angeles area offers an impressive spread of private airport options. As discussed in our post on “Do private jets land in public airports?“, private aircraft regularly utilize public and private airfields alike. So as a private jet flier, exploring the range of amenities, locations, and boarding experiences at LA’s private airports guarantees a seamless, queue-free arrival or departure.
Of course, always ensure your jets are equipped with JetBed. Our innovative product turns your jet seats into luxurious, comfortable beds for optimal in-air sleeping. It’s easy to use and lightweight, and with our large collection of options it fits almost every aircraft. There’s no reason it’s not available on every private aircraft you board!
Jetbed also offers the most comfortable bed linens for private jets, designed to provide ultimate comfort and sound sleep. Don’t settle for less when it comes to chartered flights; keep JetBed on your must-have list!