Ontario International Airport (ONT) is a full-service commercial airport located in Ontario, California. The airport is situated approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, right in the heart of the Inland Empire. ONT is a popular alternative to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and serves millions of passengers every year. If you are looking for shorter lines, easier access, and a less stressful airport experience than LAX, Ontario International Airport is an excellent choice. Whether you are flying on vacation, a business trip, or are a regular flyer, ONT offers modern facilities, convenient access, and world-class services for travelers heading to domestic and selected international destinations.
With an address of 2500 East Airport Drive, Ontario, CA 91761, the airport is readily accessible via the 10, 15, and 60 freeways. This makes Ontario International Airport an ideal airport for those residing in San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. Ontario International Airport is operated by the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) and continues to focus on airport development, improving passenger services, and expanding airline routes to serve the growing needs of the Inland Empire.
Airlines At Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Several major domestic and international airlines operate out of Ontario International Airport, providing passengers with a variety of nonstop and connecting flight options. Whether you’re planning a cross-country journey or a short regional trip, you can find competitive flights through ONT’s diverse airline partners.
The airlines currently flying out of Ontario International Airport include:
- Alaska Airlines – Provides direct routes to cities such as Seattle and Portland in the Pacific Northwest.
- American Airlines – Offers flights to major hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix, and Charlotte.
- Delta Air Lines – Fly direct to destinations including Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and Seattle.
- Frontier Airlines – Features budget-friendly service to destinations like Denver, Las Vegas, and Orlando.
- Southwest Airlines – A top carrier at ONT, it offers frequent direct flights to a wide range of U.S. Cities.
- United Airlines – Connects travelers through its hubs in Denver and San Francisco.
- Volaris – Serves multiple cities in Mexico, making ONT a favored airport for Latino communities in the Inland Empire traveling abroad.
- Hawaiian Airlines – Operates both regular and seasonal nonstop flights to Honolulu and Maui.
As the demand for air travel in the Inland Empire continues to rise, Ontario International Airport is consistently adding new airlines and destinations.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Baggage Claim
Ontario International Airport baggage claim facilities are designed for a quick, efficient and stress-free retrieval of your luggage, which is one of the many benefits of flying with ONT.
Baggage Claim Location: Baggage claim carousels are conveniently located on the ground floor of both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4, in easily marked, accessible areas right after you de-board your flight and pass through the security screening process.
Key Information:
- ONT offers a variety of baggage claim carousels, each clearly labeled with designated flight numbers visible on overhead monitors.
- The FIDS screens around the airport also provide real-time baggage carousel information.
- Airport agents and baggage service professionals are available near the carousels should you require assistance.
Lost or Damaged Luggage: If your luggage fails to arrive or if your bags are damaged, please contact the baggage service desk for your airline, which is situated in close proximity to the baggage claim area. You may also file a lost baggage claim with your airline through their website and keep your baggage claim stub until your luggage is returned.
Oversized and Special Items: Oversized items such as skis, golf clubs, bicycles, strollers, or musical instruments will be processed at dedicated oversized baggage claim areas next to the standard baggage carousels. Signs will direct you or any airport employee will assist you.
Curbside Pick-Up: Once you have collected your baggage, you will find abundant ground transportation, including ride-sharing vehicles, taxis, and rental car shuttles waiting outside the exits, offering seamless transit to your next destination.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Lounges
Despite its status as a regional airport, Ontario International Airport does provide lounge access and premium traveler services that offer a comfortable oasis of calm for select passengers seeking an elevated pre-flight experience.
Lounge Options Available:
The Club ONT (Terminal 4): The Club at ONT offers a fee-based lounge facility that is open to all travelers, regardless of airline or class of service. Amenities often include:
- Compliments on food and beverages, including alcohol
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Quiet seating and workspaces
- Televisions
- Clean, private rest facilities
You can purchase entry at the lounge door or book access in advance online. Depending on the credit card you use for travel (e.g. American Express Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve), you may receive complimentary access to The Club at ONT or through a Priority Pass membership. Verify eligibility beforehand.
Airline-Specific Lounges: As of now, ONT does not feature dedicated airline lounges (e.g., American Airlines Admirals Club or United Club) within the airport terminal. If you are a member of an airline lounge program, confirm with your airline regarding access prior to your trip.
Tips for Lounge Access at ONT:
- Present your travel rewards credit card that includes lounge benefits, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, or Citi Prestige card, for check-in.
- Priority Pass members should confirm lounge accessibility at ONT on their Priority Pass app.
- Allocate sufficient time before your departure to comfortably utilize the lounge facilities.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Maps
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is quite compact and has excellent signage but the following terminal maps can help you get around your way to your gate, restaurant or ground transportation. The two currently active terminals are:
- Terminal 2 This is where Southwest and other airlines have their counters. There are TSA security checkpoints, gates, restaurants, shops and baggage claim there.
- Terminal 4 is where American Airlines, United, Delta, and other airlines have their check in counters. It also includes a TSA security checkpoint, a number of shops, a baggage claim and gate areas, and airport lounges.
(There is no longer active passenger service for Terminal 1 or Terminal 3).
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Maps
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is quite compact and has excellent signage but the following terminal maps can help you get around your way to your gate, restaurant or ground transportation. The two currently active terminals are:
- Terminal 2 This is where Southwest and other airlines have their counters. There are TSA security checkpoints, gates, restaurants, shops and baggage claim there.
- Terminal 4 is where American Airlines, United, Delta, and other airlines have their check in counters. It also includes a TSA security checkpoint, a number of shops, a baggage claim and gate areas, and airport lounges.
(There is no longer active passenger service for Terminal 1 or Terminal 3).
ONT Airport Maps – How to find your terminal map
- Official Website: The complete Ontario International Airport terminal maps are available to download at the flyontario.com website. The airport map includes the location of check-in counters, TSA checkpoints, gates, dining, shopping and more.
- In-terminal Maps: Printed directory maps are found throughout ONT, usually at main building entrances, check-in areas and near security. You can also often find these via digital maps/kiosks.
- Mobile App/Online Navigation: Use the Google or Apple Maps app when traveling in Ontario. You can utilize indoor map functionality when available to help navigate from check-in to your gate.
Places you can find on ONT maps:
- TSA security lanes
- Airline check-in counter and other airline services
- Baggage claim carousels
- Public transportation and rideshare pickup
- Dining and retail options
- ATMs and Currency Exchange offices
- Restrooms, escalators, and elevators
- Airport lounges
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Parking
With several on-site options, Ontario International Airport (ONT) offers parking to accommodate a wide range of traveler needs. All parking areas are conveniently located within close proximity to passenger terminals and are managed by the Ontario International Airport Authority.
| Parking Type | Location | Rate (approx.) | Ideal For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term Parking | Closest to terminals (2 & 4) | Highest hourly rate; highest daily rate; second highest multi-day rate | Brief pickups, drop-offs, short visits |
| Long-term Parking | A, B, C (adjacent to terminals) | Lower daily rate than short-term; competitive multi-day rate | Multi-day trips |
| Economy Parking | Off-site with shuttle service | Lowest daily rate; lowest multi-day rate | Budget-conscious travelers, extended trips |
| Valet Parking | Valet parking podiums at terminals | Premium rate | Ultimate convenience seekers |
Important ONT parking tips:
- Reserve Parking Ahead of Time: For the best rates and availability, pre-book your parking space online at flyontario.com, particularly during busy travel periods.
- Economy Parking Shuttle: The free shuttle service for economy parking lots runs approximately every 5-10 minutes and connects travelers directly to and from terminals.
- Payment Methods: ONT parking accepts most major credit and debit cards at pay-on-foot machines, as well as mobile payment solutions like SpotHero and ParkWhiz.
- Accessible Parking: Disabled parking is available at all parking locations near the terminals, often with reserved spots.
- EV Charging: Many ONT parking lots provide electric vehicle charging stations. Look for signage in the parking areas designating EV-enabled spots.
For real-time parking availability, rates and to make online reservations, visit the Ontario International Airport website or consider using third-party parking apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz for additional options and deals.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Shop
Although not as large as some of the bigger international airports, ONT still offers an edited collection of retail and convenience shops for travelers to take care of last-minute purchases and those with leisure time.
ONT Shopping
- InMotion Entertainment (Terminal 4): Offers the tech-savvy traveler a selection of electronics, headphones, phone chargers, travel adapters, tablets, and portable power banks.
- Hudson News / WHSmith (Both Terminals): These are your classic airport newsstands selling books, magazines, newspapers, travel-sized toiletries, health supplies, snacks, candy, drinks, and souvenirs from the local California area.
- XpresSpa (Terminal 4): This spa retailer carries travel-sized skincare, wellness kits, and accessories, in addition to providing quick treatments.
- Marketplace Stores (Both Terminals): Conveniently located within the marketplace of each terminal, you’ll find items like sunscreen, over-the-counter medication, mints, gum, chargers and travel pillows.
- Retail-Aware Food and Beverage Outlets: Some of the food and beverage shops around ONT sell package goods, drinks and snacks which could be great for packing for a long trip.
- Souvenirs: If you’re looking for some California memorabilia, Inland Empire Keepsakes, or branded ONT items, you can find a variety of selections within kiosks and newsstands.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Smoking Areas
Smoking-including vaping and the use of e-cigarettes-is strictly prohibited inside Ontario International Airport buildings, at gate areas, within restrooms, and all indoor facilities. This is in accordance with California State Law.
Ontario International Airport Smoking Zones
Smokers will need to depart the secure areas of the terminal to access the designated outdoor smoking zones. These can be found:
- Outside Terminal 2: On the outer curb, away from the main building doors. Designated smoking area signs are posted.
- Outside Terminal 4: Similar to Terminal 2, there are designated outdoor areas outside Terminal 4 on the curbside, past the drop-off areas.
Important Rules regarding Smoking:
- Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of the entrance or exit of the building, or within 20 feet of any open windows that open onto a place where people congregate.
- Once a passenger passes through security, they cannot step outside of the secured areas to smoke and then re-enter the secured areas of the airport without going through security again. Plan for any extra time needed for this.
- The ban on smoking also applies to e-cigarettes, vapes and cannabis.
- Cigarettes, a limited number of lighters and e-cigarette cartridges are allowed on planes in carry-on or checked baggage according to airline and TSA rules, but it is always best to check with your individual airline regarding their policies.
- We recommend taking advantage of the designated outdoor smoking areas before proceeding to security to avoid any impact on your flight.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) Security Wait Times
It’s arguably the biggest reason people choose ONT over LAX, Burbank, or even San Diego, security lines are significantly shorter. With a manageable number of passengers and an efficient TSA, you can generally get through screening without breaking a sweat.
ONT Security Wait Times (Approximate):
- Regular TSA Line: Usually 10 to 20 minutes during busy periods.
- TSA PreCheck Line: Typically 5 minutes or less, often closer to 2 minutes or so during off-peak hours.
- CLEAR Lane: Members’ identity is verified nearly instantly, followed by a faster path through TSA PreCheck.
ONT Security Checkpoints:
- Terminal 2 checkpoint: This checkpoint is located just past the check-in counters on the ground level, before the gates.
- Terminal 4 checkpoint: Centralized access to all the gates in Terminal 4.
Check Security Wait Times in Real-Time:
- MyTSA App: The TSA’s official app offers real-time wait times for ONT.
- Flightradar24 and FlightAware: These flight tracking apps also sometimes show general airport congestion levels.
- Google Search: A quick search like “ONT airport security wait time” may give you crowd-sourced estimates.
How to Breeze Through Security at ONT:
- Join TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: If you’re a frequent flyer, these programs will pay for themselves in time saved.
- Arrive 90 minutes prior to your domestic flight (2.5-3 hours for international).
- Follow the TSA 3-1-1 Rule: Have your liquids and gels packed in a quart-size clear bag that you can easily remove from your carry-on.
- Wear slip-on shoes: Seriously, it makes a huge difference when you have to remove them.
- Remove electronics and laptops beforehand: Get them out of your bag and ready to place in a separate bin.
- Avoid peak travel times: Security can be significantly longer on Monday mornings, Friday afternoons, and around holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is a hub for several major airlines, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Volaris, and Hawaiian Airlines, among others.
Ontario International Airport is located approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. It serves as a convenient gateway for travelers residing in the Inland Empire, San Bernardino and Riverside counties, and the eastern part of Los Angeles County. Driving time from downtown Los Angeles to ONT can vary between 45 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic on I-10.
Yes. Ontario International Airport features dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 security checkpoints for expedited screening for enrolled members. CLEAR, a biometric identity verification service, is also available at ONT, allowing its members to bypass the standard ID check lines.
ONT offers a range of parking options to suit various needs, including short-term parking (for quick drop-offs and pick-ups), long-term parking (for extended trips), economy parking (which includes a complimentary shuttle service to the terminals and is the most affordable for multi-day stays), and valet parking (for maximum convenience).
No. In accordance with California state law, smoking, vaping, and the use of electronic cigarettes are strictly prohibited inside all Ontario International Airport facilities. Designated smoking areas are located outdoors, adjacent to both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4, for the convenience of passengers who wish to smoke.