$535 Economy Roundtrip to Los Angeles (JFK-LAX) in Dec from New York

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) experiences high passenger volumes in December due to holiday travel; plan ahead to avoid stress when flying to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Arrive 2–3 hours early for domestic flights, use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to speed up security, and monitor real-time flight status via airline apps. Parking often fills quickly during the holidays — reserve long-term parking or use public transit via AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station for LIRR/subway connections. For travelers seeking alternative terminals or off-peak departure times, compare flights from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to find better schedules or prices. Primary keywords such as 'JFK to LAX December' and 'John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) departure' are included to improve visibility; book early and sign up for fare alerts to secure the best December fares.

Departing from New York (JFK) FAQs

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is busier than usual in December due to holiday travel, with longer security lines and crowded terminals. Expect earlier check-in times, possible delays from winter weather or air traffic, and heightened demand for parking and airport lounges. Plan to arrive at least 2–3 hours before domestic flights and use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR if available to speed up screening.

JFK offers short-term, long-term, and economy parking with shuttle service; availability can tighten during December holidays, so reserve parking in advance when possible. Alternative transportation includes AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station for LIRR and subway connections, ride-hailing services, taxis, and off-site private shuttles. Consider drop-off or public transit to avoid parking surcharges and busy lots.

Multiple airlines operate nonstop and connecting flights from JFK to LAX and use different terminals — commonly Terminal 1, Terminal 4, Terminal 5, and Terminal 8 depending on the carrier. Check your airline’s terminal on your booking confirmation and arrive early to allow time for transfers between terminals if needed. Use JFK signage or the airport mobile app for terminal maps and gate updates.

December can bring cold fronts, snow, or ice in the New York area, which may cause air traffic flow restrictions and deicing delays at JFK. Holiday peak travel compounds schedule strain, increasing the probability of cancellations or re-accommodation needs. Monitor your flight status, sign up for airline alerts, and consider travel insurance for December trips.

JFK has a variety of lounges such as airline-specific lounges (American Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club), Priority Pass options, and flagship lounges that often provide seasonal food and quicker boarding in December. Lounges can be busier over the holidays, so verify access rules and reserve day passes if offered. Amenities like complimentary snacks, showers, and quiet spaces are especially valuable during winter travel delays.

Yes — nearby alternatives include LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), each offering flights to LAX and different fare or schedule options during December. Sometimes flying from or to an alternative New York-area airport can reduce delays or find cheaper fares; compare schedules and factor in ground travel time. Check public transit connections and parking availability before switching airports.

Arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December typically means mild weather but busier ground transport and baggage claim areas. Popular nearby destinations accessible from LAX include Santa Monica (beach and pier), Anaheim (Disneyland), Long Beach, Downtown Los Angeles, and San Diego for extended trips. Book rental cars and ride-shares ahead of peak holiday evenings, use official LAX shuttles to access terminal-to-terminal transfers, and check the LAX website for seasonal traffic advisories. Include keywords like 'JFK to LAX arrival December' or 'Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) arrival tips' when searching for airport updates and book your onward transfer in advance to avoid holiday delays.

Arriving at Los Angeles (LAX) FAQs

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) typically has milder weather in December, reducing the likelihood of weather-related delays compared with JFK, but holiday crowds can still slow baggage claim and ground transportation. Expect longer waits for shuttles and ride-hailing pickups during peak holiday evenings; use designated pickup areas and follow LAX signage. Consider pre-booking car services or checking Santa Monica, Downtown LA, and Anaheim connections for onward travel.

LAX offers multiple ground transport choices including shared shuttles, ride-hailing zones, taxis, rental cars, Metro buses, and a growing Metro Rail connection via the LAX/Metro shuttle. During December, reserve rental cars in advance and allow extra time for shuttle queues and traffic to popular destinations like Santa Monica, Anaheim (w/Disneyland), Long Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles. For a stress-free transfer, consider pre-booked airport transfers or off-airport parking with shuttle service.

For domestic flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), U.S. customs and immigration do not apply; you will deplane and proceed to baggage claim and ground transportation. If you are connecting from an international flight at JFK, ensure all customs pre-clearance rules were followed and know that LAX is a domestic arrival in this route scenario. Always check the arrival gate and baggage carousel for updates, especially in December when operations are busier.

There isn't a single terminal for all JFK flights; arrivals can come into terminals 1 through 8 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) depending on the carrier. Check your airline's terminal ahead of arrival and use LAX wayfinding or the official LAX mobile app since holiday schedule shifts may occur in December. For quick onward connections, verify shuttle services between terminals and allow time for terminal transfers.

LAX may run seasonal operations like increased security checkpoints, holiday staffing, and temporary traffic patterns for events in nearby Los Angeles during December. Roadway construction projects can also change pickup/drop-off zones; check LAX advisories before arrival. For travelers connecting to holiday events in Downtown LA, Anaheim, Santa Monica, or nearby San Diego, plan extra transit time during peak December dates.

1.0.2512.14

December Events & Festivals Near John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

New York City (near John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)) hosts iconic December events like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, and New Year’s Eve in Times Square, which all drive higher demand for flights. Los Angeles (near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)) features seasonal attractions such as the Hollywood Christmas Parade, holiday shows at the Hollywood Bowl, and festive events in Santa Monica and Anaheim (Disneyland holidays), influencing arrival volumes. Travelers should book early around major event dates and search with event-related keywords (e.g., 'JFK to LAX for New Year’s Eve') to find suitable flights and accommodations.

Best Time to Fly JFK to LAX in December — Optimize Price and Convenience

The best time to fly John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December is midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and outside major holiday travel days (avoid the days immediately before Christmas and New Year’s Eve). Red-eye departures can offer lower fares and less congestion at JFK; early morning flights also help reduce the impact of evening weather delays in New York. If you need maximum convenience, select a nonstop midday flight and arrive early at JFK to navigate holiday crowds. Use flexible date searches and set fare alerts with keywords like 'best time to fly JFK to LAX December' to find optimal options.

Direct vs. Connecting Flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December

Nonstop flights between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are faster and reduce the risk of missed connections, making them ideal for December holiday travelers. Connecting flights can be cheaper and open more flexible routing options (e.g., via Chicago, Denver, or Atlanta), but they add total travel time and increase the chance of disruption during peak holiday periods. If reliability and minimized travel time are priorities, opt for nonstop service; if saving money is the main goal, compare one-stop itineraries and allow generous layovers. Use search terms like 'nonstop JFK to LAX December' when prioritizing direct options.

Airline Comparison for JFK to LAX in December — American, Delta, JetBlue, Alaska and Others

Delta Air Lines: Frequent nonstop options between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), solid reliability, and Delta Sky Club access; expect premium seats and robust schedule choice in December. American Airlines: Multiple daily nonstops from JFK with competitive fares, Admirals Club lounges, and extensive connections if you want a one-stop route; watch for holiday surcharges. JetBlue: Offers competitive fares with more legroom in coach on many JFK–LAX flights and attractive loyalty perks; limited lounge access compared to legacy carriers. Alaska Airlines and United may offer one-stop options or partner itineraries, often competitive on price for December travel. When comparing, check baggage fees, change/cancellation policies, and frequent flyer award availability; search 'JFK to LAX airline comparison December' to see real-time offers and book the best fit for your trip.

Seasonal Travel Tips for JFK to LAX in December — Packing, Delays and Holiday Strategies

Pack layered clothing to handle winter temperatures at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and milder conditions at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX); a compact jacket and breathable layers work well for December travel. Protect your itinerary by booking refundable or flexible fares if traveling around major holidays, carry essential medications and documents in your carry-on, and download airline apps for real-time updates. Allow extra time for security and ground transport, use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to speed screening, and consider travel insurance for peak-season disruptions. For the best deals, search early and compare carriers with keywords like 'cheap flights JFK LAX December' and 'JFK to LAX December tips' — and always confirm baggage rules to avoid unexpected fees.

Flight Time and Schedules — John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December

Nonstop flight time from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) typically ranges from 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes depending on winds and routing. In December, airlines operate frequent daily nonstops throughout the day, with morning departures, early afternoon peaks, and several red-eye options that cross multiple time zones. Peak travel times during holiday weeks may shift earlier or later to accommodate demand; check carrier schedules for specific departure windows. For best search results, look up 'nonstop JFK to LAX flight time December' and verify local departure/arrival times when booking.

How to Find Cheap Flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December

To find cheap flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December, aim to book 3–8 weeks in advance for holiday travel and check midweek departures (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) for lower fares. Use fare-alert tools, flexible-date searches, and multi-airline itineraries to compare nonstop and one-stop options. Consider red-eye flights that often have lower prices and fewer crowds, and redeem frequent flyer miles or credit card points to reduce cash costs. Monitor sales from Delta, American, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines; set alerts for keywords like 'cheap flights JFK to LAX December' and act quickly when prices drop. CTA: Create a fare alert today and compare nonstop JFK–LAX December options to secure the best deal.

Wed, Dec 24

Roundtrip

Sat, Dec 27

Fri, Dec 26

Roundtrip

Mon, Dec 29

Mon, Dec 29

Roundtrip

Thu, Jan 1

Thu, Dec 25

Roundtrip

Sun, Dec 28

Tue, Dec 23

Roundtrip

Fri, Dec 26

Sun, Dec 28

Roundtrip

Wed, Dec 31

Sat, Dec 27

Roundtrip

Tue, Dec 30

Other Options for This Route

Other Destinations

Flights from Other Cities

Departing from New York (JFK) FAQs

What should I expect at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) when flying to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December?

Are there parking and transportation options at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December?

What terminals at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) handle flights to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)?

How do winter weather and holidays affect flight delays from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December?

What are the best airport lounges and amenities at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) for a December departure to LAX?

Are there alternative airports near John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to consider for December travel to Los Angeles?

Arriving at Los Angeles (LAX) FAQs

What should I know about arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December?

What ground transportation options are available from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December?

Are there customs or entry procedures arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) if my flight originates at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)?

What are the best terminals at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for passengers arriving from JFK?

Are there December-specific events or closures at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) that affect arrivals from JFK?

December Events & Festivals Near John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Best Time to Fly JFK to LAX in December — Optimize Price and Convenience

Direct vs. Connecting Flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December

Airline Comparison for JFK to LAX in December — American, Delta, JetBlue, Alaska and Others

Seasonal Travel Tips for JFK to LAX in December — Packing, Delays and Holiday Strategies

Flight Time and Schedules — John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December

How to Find Cheap Flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: JFK to LAX in December - Route 3

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: JFK to LAX in December - Route 4

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: JFK to LAX in December - Route 5

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: JFK to LAX in December - Route 6

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: JFK to LAX in December - Route 7

Flight Options & Prices:

Why Choose Economy Class Flights from New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX)?