How to Get to Ontario Airport from Los Angeles [2025 Guide]
If you are travelling during the day and have the time you can take the FlyAway bus to Union Station for around $10, then get the MetroLink ONT Connect ticket, take the train to the Rancho Cucamonga station and the shuttle to the ONT Airport.
✈️ Why Travel from Los Angeles to Ontario Airport?
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is one of Southern California’s busiest airports, serving domestic and international destinations. Many travelers prefer ONT over LAX because it’s smaller, less crowded, and easier to navigate.
The airport is located in Ontario, California, about 38 miles (61 km) east of downtown Los Angeles. Depending on traffic, the trip can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Fortunately, there are multiple transportation options available in 2025.
🚗 Option 1: Driving from Los Angeles to Ontario Airport
Driving is the most flexible and often the fastest way to reach Ontario Airport.
- Distance: ~38 miles (61 km)
- Travel Time: 45 minutes–1.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Cost: $12–$25 (fuel + parking fees)
- Route: Take the I-10 East or I-210 East, both of which lead directly to Ontario.
👉 ONT offers both short-term and long-term parking lots. Daily parking rates start around $20. If you’re dropping someone off, there’s a cell phone waiting lot for free.
🚖 Option 2: Rideshare & Taxi (Uber/Lyft)
If you don’t want to drive, rideshare is a convenient choice.
- Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Cost: $80–$120 (standard ride)
- Best For: Solo travelers without luggage, or those avoiding parking fees.
During peak hours, fares may surge. Uber and Lyft both have designated drop-off zones at ONT for easy access.
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🚐 Option 3: Airport Shuttle Services
Shared and private airport shuttles run between Los Angeles and Ontario Airport.
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours (due to multiple stops)
- Cost: $25–$50 per person (shared); $100–$150 (private)
- Providers: Prime Time Shuttle, SuperShuttle, and private transfer companies.
👉 Shuttles are great for travelers with lots of luggage but can take longer due to pickup/drop-off schedules.
🚆 Option 4: Train + Shuttle/Bus (Metrolink + Omnitrans)
Public transit is a budget-friendly way to reach Ontario Airport.
- Step 1: Take Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line from Los Angeles Union Station to East Ontario Station.
- Step 2: Transfer to the Omnitrans Route 61 bus or an airport shuttle for the final 3 miles.
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Cost: ~$12–$15 total
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers.
This option is slower but affordable and eco-friendly.
🚌 Option 5: Public Bus (Cheapest)
Local buses also connect Los Angeles and Ontario, though not directly.
- Route Example: Union Station → El Monte → Omnitrans Bus to Ontario
- Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours (with transfers)
- Cost: $6–$10
- Best For: Travelers on a very tight budget.
👉 Not recommended if you have luggage or need to catch a flight quickly.
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📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Mode of Transport | Travel Time | Cost (One-Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Driving | 45 min–1.5 hrs | $12–$25 (+ parking) | Flexibility & families |
| 🚖 Uber/Lyft | 1–1.5 hrs | $80–$120 | Convenience, no parking |
| 🚐 Shuttle | 1.5–2 hrs | $25–$50 (shared) | Travelers with luggage |
| 🚆 Train + Bus | 1.5–2 hrs | $12–$15 | Budget-friendly, eco-conscious |
| 🚌 Public Bus | 2.5–3 hrs | $6–$10 | Cheapest option |
🙋 FAQs About Getting to Ontario Airport from Los Angeles
1. How far is Ontario Airport from Los Angeles?
Ontario International Airport is about 38 miles (61 km) east of downtown Los Angeles.
2. What is the fastest way to get to Ontario Airport from LA?
Driving is usually the fastest option, taking 45 minutes to 1 hour with light traffic.
3. What is the cheapest way to reach Ontario Airport?
The cheapest way is by public bus or a combination of Metrolink train + Omnitrans bus, costing around $6–$15.
4. Does Metrolink go directly to Ontario Airport?
Not directly. You’ll need to take the Metrolink San Bernardino Line to East Ontario Station, then transfer to a bus or shuttle.
5. Is Uber or Lyft available at Ontario Airport?
Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate at ONT with designated pickup and drop-off zones.
6. Can I park at Ontario Airport overnight?
Yes, ONT has several long-term parking lots, with daily rates starting around $20.
✅ Final Tip: In 2025, the best way to get from Los Angeles to Ontario Airport depends on your budget and time. Driving is the quickest, rideshare is convenient, and Metrolink + bus is the most affordable.
