LAX to Change Parking Rates

Starting Oct. 2, there will be new rates for parking at LAX terminals. The rates have been rejiggered to give short-term parkers a break but hammer the long-term parkers--or force them into cheaper, outlying lots.

The new rates at parking garages at the terminals will be $1 every 30 minutes, up to a maximum of $24 for a 24-hour period. Currently, you’re charged $3 for the first two hours (whether you stay two hours or just a few minutes), then $1 per hour up to a maximum of $16 for a 24-hour period. The effect of the new rates: Park 30 minutes or less and save $2 over current rates; park a full day and pay $8 more than current rates.

Airport officials say they’re trying to cut down on traffic congestion in the terminal area by encouraging drivers who drop off or pick up passengers to park in the garage instead of parking at the curb or circling for spaces. Rates at outlying public lots will remain the same: $7 at Lot B and $5 at Lot C for 24 hours.

Officials said it’s the first time terminal parking rates have been increased in a decade. Also going up Oct. 2: daily rates at the Van Nuys Flyaway parking lot, from $1 to $2 per day.