Choosing the right airport can mean the difference between a two-hour drive through LA traffic or a seamless 20-minute transfer to Beverly Hills. At Centurion Jets, we specialize in matching our clients with the best private jet airport near Los Angeles based on their itinerary, aircraft type, and personal preferences.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular private jet airports serving LA — and which one might be right for your next trip.
1. Van Nuys Airport (VNY) — The World’s Busiest Private Jet Hub
When it comes to private aviation in Los Angeles, Van Nuys Airport (VNY) reigns supreme. Located in the San Fernando Valley, just 20 minutes from Hollywood and Beverly Hills, Van Nuys is the airport of choice for celebrities, executives, and high-net-worth travelers.
Key Features of Van Nuys (VNY):
- Proximity: Closest private airport to central LA (12 miles from Hollywood).
- Exclusivity: 100% dedicated to private and corporate flights — no commercial airlines.
- Facilities: Multiple FBOs with luxury lounges, private customs, conference rooms, and direct chauffeur or helicopter transfers.
- Aircraft Capability: Handles everything from light jets to ultra-long-range aircraft.
Fun Fact: More than 200,000 private jet operations take place at Van Nuys every year, making it the busiest private jet airport in the world.
2. Bob Hope Airport (BUR) — Burbank’s Gateway to Hollywood
Located in Burbank, Bob Hope Airport (BUR) is another favorite among entertainment industry travelers. It’s particularly convenient for those heading directly to Hollywood studios.
Why Choose Burbank (BUR)?
- Location: Only 8 miles from Hollywood — the fastest option for studio executives.
- Privacy: Private terminals available for discreet arrivals.
- Flexibility: Less congested than LAX, making takeoffs and landings faster.
- Aircraft Types: Suited for light, midsize, and heavy jets.
Best For: Studio executives, film crews, and celebrities with direct commitments in Hollywood.
3. Santa Monica Airport (SMO) — Coastal Convenience
If your plans involve LA’s famous beaches or the Westside, Santa Monica Airport (SMO) is the ideal choice.
Key Benefits of Santa Monica (SMO):
- Location: 10 minutes from Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Pacific Palisades.
- Traveler Profile: Popular for leisure travelers and executives with offices in Silicon Beach.
- Limitations: Runway length restricts operations mostly to light and midsize jets.
Best For: Families or couples flying in for beach getaways, executives visiting tech hubs, and celebrities with Malibu estates.
4. Long Beach Airport (LGB) — Southern LA Access
Located about 25 miles south of downtown LA, Long Beach Airport (LGB) offers a quieter alternative to the more congested airports.
Advantages of Long Beach (LGB):
- Proximity: Convenient for Orange County and southern LA.
- Facilities: Private terminals and FBO services with quick access.
- Flexibility: Great option when Van Nuys or Burbank is too busy.
- Aircraft Types: Can handle small to large jets.
Best For: Travelers headed to Orange County, Long Beach, or southern suburbs of Los Angeles.
5. LAX Private Terminals — For International Connections
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest commercial airports in the world — but it also offers exclusive private terminals that cater to elite travelers.
Why Choose LAX Private Suites?
- International Connectivity: Best option for global travelers arriving on or connecting to commercial flights.
- VIP Services: Luxury lounges, expedited security, private customs clearance.
- Privacy: Arrive at your gate or aircraft in a private vehicle transfer.
Pro Tip: Many international private travelers fly directly into LAX’s private terminals to connect seamlessly to global destinations.
6. Other Regional Options Near Los Angeles
In addition to the five main airports, there are smaller regional options for more specialized needs:
- Ontario International (ONT): Useful for business in the Inland Empire.
- John Wayne Airport (SNA): Great for travelers with ties to Orange County.
- Camarillo Airport (CMA): A quieter option northwest of LA, often used for corporate retreats.
Arrive exactly where you need to be in LA. Request your Los Angeles private jet charter quote and let Centurion Jets match you with the perfect airport for your journey. Request a Quote Now!
7. How to Choose the Best LA Airport for Your Flight
The right airport depends on three key factors:
- Final Destination in LA: Beverly Hills? Malibu? Downtown? Each airport serves different regions.
- Aircraft Type: Larger jets require longer runways like those at VNY or LAX.
- Privacy and Speed: Celebrities may choose Santa Monica or Van Nuys; business executives often prefer Burbank for its proximity to Hollywood.
At Centurion Jets, we analyze your route, aircraft, and travel needs to ensure you always land at the most efficient and discreet airport.
8. Traveler Scenarios: Real-Life Examples
Scenario 1: Celebrity Arrival
- Route: Miami → Los Angeles
- Airport: Van Nuys (VNY)
- Reason: Fast, private arrival to Beverly Hills mansion.
Scenario 2: Studio Executive
- Route: San Francisco → Los Angeles
- Airport: Burbank (BUR)
- Reason: Quick transfer to Warner Bros. Studios in Hollywood.
Scenario 3: Family Vacation
- Route: Phoenix → Los Angeles
- Airport: Santa Monica (SMO)
- Reason: Short ground transfer to Malibu beach rental.
9. Airport Comparison Table
| Airport | Best For | Distance to Downtown LA | Aircraft Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Van Nuys (VNY) | Celebrities, executives | 20 miles | All jets |
| Burbank (BUR) | Hollywood studios | 15 miles | Light–Heavy |
| Santa Monica (SMO) | Beaches, Malibu | 15 miles | Light–Midsize |
| Long Beach (LGB) | Orange County access | 25 miles | All jets |
| LAX Private Terminals | International travelers | 18 miles | All jets |
Your LA arrival should be smooth, fast, and private. Let Centurion Jets help you choose the right airport for your trip. Get a Quote Now!
10. Why Centurion Jets for LA Private Airports?
- Access to all LA-area airports.
- 24/7 trip planning support for last-minute flights.
- Partnerships with top FBOs for luxury lounges and services.
- Custom itineraries for business, leisure, or international arrivals.
With Centurion Jets, the question isn’t whether you’ll get to Los Angeles — it’s how perfectly we’ll plan your arrival.
Los Angeles is sprawling, diverse, and full of opportunities. Choosing the right private jet airport is essential to maximizing your time, privacy, and convenience.
Whether it’s Van Nuys for Beverly Hills, Burbank for Hollywood, Santa Monica for Malibu, Long Beach for Orange County, or LAX for international connections — Centurion Jets ensures your arrival matches your lifestyle.
Land exactly where life takes you. Request your Los Angeles private jet charter quote today with Centurion Jets and let us plan the perfect arrival. Book Your Private Jet Charter Now
