Terminal 7 is United Airline's dedicated hub at LAX.Credit: Wayne Slezak
THE FLIGHT
United Airlines UA839 to Sydney, Premium Plus.
THE ARRIVAL
Terminal 7 is United Airline's dedicated hub at LAX. I arrive on a United flight from New York and have five hours to kill before my flight to Sydney.
THE LOOK
Thanks to a $US573 million ($A875 million) upgrade in 2018, Terminal 7 feels modern and airy, with plenty of seating, charging points and water fountains. It has all the necessities, including free Wi-Fi.
CHECK-IN AND SECURITY
As my luggage is already checked through to Sydney, I'm spared check-in and security, however, I'm reliably informed that both were significantly improved by the 2018 upgrade.
LOUNGE
A major part of the 2018 refurbishment was the creation of a new 1850-square-metre United Club lounge. It's a vast, light-flooded space with oodles of seating, marble-topped communal work stations and large windows overlooking the tarmac. There's a decent self-service buffet and a well-stocked bar, but the real highlight is an outdoor terrace with views of the Hollywood Hills. High status frequent flyers can access the lounge for free, otherwise day passes can be bought via the United App or at reception for $US59 ($A93).
FOOD AND DRINK
There are varied eateries, from a food court selling burgers, pizzas and tacos to a couple of grab-and-go delis and a fancier sit-down steakhouse. Expect to pay airport prices, though, which means $US11 and upwards for a sandwich. There are also several sports bars.
RETAIL THERAPY
Apart from a bookstore, one small duty-free shop and a couple of newsagents, there's not a lot of retail action here. However, you can use an airside walkway to access Tom Bradley International Terminal (via terminals 6, 5 and 4), which has a much wider selection of restaurants and stores. It's about a 20-minute walk each way.
PASSING TIME
There's a small art gallery near gate 80 and a grand piano, but other than that your best bet is to pay for lounge access or stroll to a neighbouring terminal.
ONE MORE THING
If you have a long transit in LAX, consider leaving the airport and recharging at a nearby hotel. I used the stylish Hyatt Place LAX / Century Blvd, which has a free airport shuttle, 24/7 dining, a heated rooftop pool and — most importantly — spacious rooms with jet lag-taming beds. See hyatt.com
THE VERDICT
Thanks to an ongoing $US14.3 billion modernisation program, LAX is slowly evolving into the world-class airport it deserves to be. Terminal 7 might not have the wow factor but it's efficient, well-equipped and easy to navigate.
OUR RATING OUT OF FIVE
★★★★☆
Rob McFarland was a guest of Aurora Expeditions (auroraexpeditions.com.au) United Airlines (united.com) and Hyatt Place LAX.
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