Traveling between two Los Angeles airports can feel more complicated than it looks on a map. If you land at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) but your next flight leaves from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you need to plan the transfer carefully.
Burbank Airport and LAX are roughly 20 miles apart by road, but Los Angeles traffic can make the journey much longer than the distance suggests. Rome2Rio currently lists driving between the airports at about 20.5 miles and around 36 minutes under typical conditions, while public transportation takes longer and requires transfers.
Whether you are making a planned connection or recovering from a schedule change, choosing the right Burbank Airport to LAX transportation can help make the transfer more manageable.
The road distance between BUR and LAX is approximately 20 miles. That makes the airports relatively close geographically, but traffic is the biggest factor affecting the actual journey.
A drive that takes around 35–40 minutes in favorable conditions can take considerably longer during Los Angeles rush hours, weekends, holidays, or major events. This is why travelers should avoid planning the transfer based only on the estimated driving distance.
You also need to consider the time required to collect luggage, reach your pickup location, travel to LAX, find your airline terminal, check bags, and go through security.
There are several ways to travel between the airports. The best choice depends on your available time, budget, luggage, and comfort preferences.
For travelers who want a direct airport-to-airport journey, an airport shuttle can be one of the most convenient options.
Prime Time Shuttle provides transportation from Burbank Airport and serves passengers traveling throughout the Los Angeles area. Its Burbank Airport transportation service gives travelers an option to arrange transportation ahead of time instead of figuring out a new connection after landing.
A private vehicle can be especially useful when you have checked luggage, are traveling with family, or have limited time between flights. Depending on your group size, you can choose from different vehicle options.
Public transportation can be a lower-cost alternative, but it usually requires more planning.
Rome2Rio lists a train-and-bus journey between BUR and LAX at approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, while its bus option takes around 1 hour 55 minutes and requires a transfer.
This may work when you have plenty of time between flights. However, multiple connections can become difficult if your first flight is delayed or you are traveling with several pieces of luggage.
Rideshare services and taxis provide another direct option. They can be convenient when you want to travel directly between the two airports without using public transportation.
The main concern is that the journey time depends heavily on traffic. Rideshare prices can also change according to demand, so travelers should compare the overall cost and estimated travel time before choosing this option.
The answer depends on your flight schedule and traffic conditions, but it is important to think beyond the driving time.
For example, a 40-minute road journey does not mean you only need 40 minutes between flights. You may need time to:
If your flights are booked separately, give yourself additional time because the airlines may not protect the connection if the first flight is delayed.
Tight connections require extra planning. If your first flight arrives late, the amount of time available for the transfer can disappear quickly.
One way to reduce unnecessary delays is to arrange your transportation before arriving at Burbank. Having a reservation means you already know what transportation you are using rather than spending time comparing options after landing.
Prime Time Shuttle’s LAX Airport Shuttle service offers different ride options, including shared rides, sedans, SUVs, and vans. The service is designed for different passenger and luggage requirements, making it easier to select a vehicle that fits your trip.
For a tight connection, a private transfer can be particularly useful because you are not dependent on multiple public transportation connections.
The reverse route is also common. You may arrive at LAX and have a later departure from Burbank Airport, particularly when BUR offers a more convenient flight schedule or airline option.
The same planning principles apply in this direction. Check the distance, allow for Los Angeles traffic, and give yourself enough time for luggage and airport procedures.
Do not assume that LAX to Burbank will take exactly the same amount of time as the reverse trip. Traffic conditions can change throughout the day.
Booking ahead can make an airport-to-airport transfer easier to manage. Prime Time Shuttle allows passengers to arrange transportation by entering their pickup and drop-off locations, selecting a service, adding the travel time and passenger information, and completing the reservation.
You can make a Prime Time Shuttle reservation before your trip and have your transportation plans ready before arriving at BUR.
When booking, enter the exact airport and terminal information whenever requested. Also provide your flight details when applicable so your transportation provider has the information needed for your airport transfer.
Travelers who want to compare different transportation methods can use Rome2Rio’s Burbank Airport to LAX guide to review available options, including driving, public transportation, rideshare, and other routes.
Public transportation may be suitable for travelers with a generous connection window. Rideshare and taxis can provide flexibility, while a pre-arranged airport shuttle or private transfer can be more convenient when luggage, timing, and direct transportation are priorities.
The journey from Burbank Airport to LAX is manageable, but the short distance should not be mistaken for a guaranteed quick transfer. Los Angeles traffic, baggage collection, airport procedures, and flight delays can all affect your schedule.
If you have a connecting flight at LAX, plan your transportation before you land at BUR and allow enough time for the entire airport-to-airport process. With the right vehicle and a realistic time buffer, you can make the transfer with less stress and arrive at LAX ready for the next part of your journey.
