Do Military Planes Land at LAX?

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has seen its fair share of military aircraft over the years. While it's not your typical landing site for military planes, there are specific circumstances under which they do touch down there. In my time as an air traffic controller at LAX, I witnessed several instances of military planes using the airport, including Air Force One and Air Force Two. Additionally, the US Navy used one of their F-18s for takeoff on one occasion. This raises the question: why would a military plane land at LAX, and how frequent is this occurrence?

The Uniqueness of Military Landing

Military aircraft typically prefer more specialized facilities better equipped to handle their needs. However, as an international hub with a high volume of commercial traffic, LAX occasionally sees military planes, often in response to specific operational requirements. This can include support for military operations, cross-border missions, or even routine training flights that pass through the area.

Why Military Planes Land at LAX

There are several reasons why military planes might land at LAX.

Operational Necessity: Factors such as weather conditions, maintenance issues, or emergency medical evacuations can necessitate a military plane to land at LAX. These scenarios require immediate and flexible solutions that may not be available at other more specialized military airports.

Support for Mission Objectives: LAX can serve as a crucial logistical base for military operations that require coordination with commercial airlines, border crossing, or support in non-military areas, such as emergency services.

Training and Exercise Needs: Occasionally, military aircraft undergo operational training that may involve flying over the region. This can lead to unexpected landings, especially if the training involves complex maneuvers that require an open and secure airspace.

Comparing LAX to Other Airports

While LAX does see military planes occasionally, it is not the primary destination for military aircraft. The airport's high volume of commercial traffic and its location in the heart of Los Angeles make it less suitable for military operations. Specialized military airports, such as Edwards Air Force Base and Vandenberg Air Force Base, are better equipped to handle the unique requirements of military aircraft.

Therefore, while LAX is a strategic location for some exceptional military operations, other facilities are better suited for routine missions and training. The decision to land at LAX comes down to the operational needs of the moment, and the airport's capacity to accommodate such unique requirements in a highly trafficked environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are military planes a common sight at LAX?

A: No, while military planes do land at LAX, it is not a frequent occurrence. LAX is primarily an international commercial airport, and military aircraft prefer more specialized facilities that are better equipped to handle their unique requirements.

Q: What types of military planes have been known to land at LAX?

A: I have witnessed a variety of military aircraft at LAX, including Air Force One and Air Force Two, as well as a US Navy F-18. These planes are often associated with high-profile operations, such as support for the President or standardized training exercises.

Q: Why choose LAX over other military airports?

A: Military aircraft may choose LAX due to operational necessity, such as maintenance needs, medical emergencies, or logistical support. Additionally, LAX's strategic location can be advantageous for mission planning that involves complex operations or training exercises that require coordination with commercial air traffic.

By understanding the specific circumstances and needs that lead to military landings at LAX, air traffic controllers can better prepare and manage such operations to ensure the safety and efficiency of the airport.