Burbank Airport (BUR) vs. LAX: Which Airport Should You Fly From?

Los Angeles has several commercial airports, and for many people the choice comes down to Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) or LAX. If you live in the San Fernando Valley, Glendale, Pasadena, Hollywood or Santa Clarita, Burbank is often closer and much easier. Here is how they compare.

Distance and drive time

BUR sits in the east San Fernando Valley, minutes from Studio City, Glendale and Burbank itself, and roughly 25 miles from Santa Clarita. LAX is on the coast near Westchester, and from the Valley you usually have to cross the Sepulveda Pass on the I-405, which is one of the slowest stretches of freeway in the country at rush hour.

Size and crowds

Burbank is a small airport with short walks from the curb to the gate. LAX is one of the busiest airports in the world, with nine terminals around a one-way loop. Security lines, walking distances and curb traffic are all heavier at LAX.

Flights

LAX has far more flights and destinations, including almost all international service. Burbank focuses on domestic routes, especially the western US. If your flight is international or the route only runs from LAX, the choice is made for you.

Getting picked up

At LAX, taxis and rideshares pick up from the LAX-it lot. At Burbank, pickups are close to the terminal. With a private car, your chauffeur confirms the meeting point by text at either airport, and with meet & greet (+$40) waits inside with a name sign.

Our take

• Domestic flight and you live in the Valley, Pasadena, Glendale or Santa Clarita: check Burbank first.
• International flight, or a better fare from LAX: allow extra time for the drive.
• Either way, we track your flight and operate 24/7.

See our Burbank Airport car service and LAX car service pages, or get an instant quote.