ONT decoded: Ontario International Airport without the Los Angeles or Canada confusion
Use the right airport code, terminal and address; compare ONT with LAX; plan parking, TSA, rideshare, Metrolink, international pickup and a separate-airport transfer with current official guidance.
Check these live ONT pages before leaving
Static airport articles become stale quickly. These buttons open current airport or government pages for the details that matter most on travel day.
Six ONT details worth knowing before you drive to the airport
The separate International Arrivals Terminal is primarily for passengers entering the U.S. through CBP. Do not drive there for an ordinary departure.
Airport live checks & travel tools
Use current local conditions, official live-status links and planning calculators before you travel. Airline gate, terminal and flight times can change; your carrier remains the final source for flight-specific details.
Live flight center
Check the airport's official flight board, then confirm any last-minute gate or timing change with the airline.
Current airport-area weather
Useful for planning your trip to the airport. This is model-based local weather, not an aviation METAR or an airline operational forecast.
Quick official checks
Open the source that matches the decision you are making right now.
When should I reach the airport?
A planning estimate based on flight type and common time buffers. Always increase the buffer for severe weather, major holidays, unusual airport alerts or airline instructions.
Connection-risk checker
This is a planning heuristic, not an airline minimum-connection-time rule. International arrivals that require U.S. entry processing, baggage claim and security can need substantially more time.
Parking cost estimator
Uses the airport-specific rates stored in this article's configuration. Rates can change; verify availability and final pricing on the official parking page before driving in.
Passenger pickup readiness
Landing time is not curb-ready time. Add time for taxiing, deplaning, baggage claim, customs when applicable and walking to the correct pickup zone.
Your airline may depart from T2 or T4, while a non-precleared international return can finish at 2222 International Way after federal inspection.
Pickup planningONT is Ontario International Airport in San Bernardino County, California. Canadian airports in Ontario use their own codes, such as YYZ or YOW.
Booking error preventionA connection between them requires a full ground trip. There is no secure-side transfer and no airport-to-airport flight-connection guarantee.
Connection riskUse ONT Connect Route 380 between T2/T4 and Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink Station, then continue by train.
Transit realityChoose the lot before entering. Pre-book QR rules, premium-lot restrictions and re-entry rules can matter as much as the daily rate.
Parking frictionWhat is the ONT airport code?
ONT is the IATA airport code for Ontario International Airport in Ontario, California. It is the three-letter abbreviation passengers see on tickets, flight searches and checked-bag tags. Aviation systems use KONT as the ICAO code, while the FAA location identifier is also ONT.
Why does Ontario International Airport use the abbreviation ONT?
ONT is a direct location abbreviation from Ontario. The airport traces its history to Latimer Field in 1923 and was officially designated an airport in 1929. Today the passenger-facing name is Ontario International Airport; the current locally controlled era began November 1, 2016.
Latimer Field roots
The early airfield history explains older references that may not use the modern airport name.
Local control
Ontario and San Bernardino County regained local control, which the airport describes as a new beginning.
Modern passenger code
For tickets, bags and flight searches, ONT is the code that matters to passengers.
Use the right ONT address for the right facility
Ontario International does not have one passenger curb address that works best for every trip. Enter the specific facility in your map app so you do not arrive at the wrong terminal, international pickup area or rental-car building.
Ontario, CA 91761T2 departures / arrivals
Ontario, CA 91761T4 departures / arrivals
Ontario, CA 91761International pickup after CBP
Ontario, CA 91761Rental pickup / return
Ontario, CA 91761Free wait · 1-hour max
Ontario, CA 91761Not your passenger terminal
How to read ONT’s landside map before you arrive
The official ground-transportation map is more useful when you treat ONT as several separate passenger destinations rather than one generic pin. Terminal 2 sits opposite Lot 2, Terminal 4 opposite Lot 4, the International Arrivals Terminal has its own pickup location, and the Rental Car Center is off the passenger-terminal curb.
If you are departing
Navigate to T2 or T4 using the operating airline’s current assignment. The administration address is not a passenger drop-off location.
If you are meeting an international arrival
Use 2222 International Way when the arriving flight requires CBP processing. Wait until the traveler confirms they are in the public lobby.
If you are returning a rental car
Navigate to 3450 E. Airport Drive first, return the vehicle, then use the free airport shuttle to the correct passenger terminal.
Printable ground-transport map
ONT’s official map page provides a downloadable PDF for the landside layout. Use the PDF for facility orientation, then use live signage for curb lanes and temporary routing because ground-transport operations can change.
Ontario, California vs Ontario, Canada: what ONT actually means
The word “Ontario” causes a common booking error. ONT identifies Ontario International Airport in California, USA. Ontario, Canada is a province with many separate airports; the province itself has no single three-letter airport code.
| Code / search | What it means | Location | Booking check |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONT | Ontario International Airport | Ontario, California, USA | Correct for this guide |
| KONT | ICAO code for ONT | California, USA | Aviation/weather use |
| YYZ | Toronto Pearson International | Ontario, Canada | Different airport/country |
| YOW | Ottawa International | Ontario, Canada | Different airport/country |
ONT vs LAX: which airport did you actually book?
ONT is a Southern California gateway and the airport places itself approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, but it is not Los Angeles International Airport. LAX is a separate airport with the code LAX.
Ontario, San Bernardino County, Inland Empire. Two main departure terminals plus a separate international-arrivals facility.
Los Angeles. A completely separate airport, road trip and check-in/security process.
ONT to LAX: separate-airport transfer guide
There is no secure-side or airport shuttle connection between ONT and LAX. Treat this as a full ground transfer between separate airports, especially if your onward flight is on a separate ticket.
Direct car, taxi or rideshare
Usually the simplest option. Southern California traffic can change dramatically by time of day, crashes and construction, so check live navigation immediately before leaving ONT. Recheck the LAX terminal after the drive starts.
Public transit chain
Use ONT Connect to Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink Station, take the San Bernardino Line toward Los Angeles Union Station, then transfer to the LAX FlyAway bus. This uses multiple schedules and is unsuitable for a tight flight connection.
Separate tickets need extra protection
Build time for ONT arrival/deplaning/bags, the entire ground trip, LAX airline check-in or bag drop and LAX security. A delay on your first ticket may not protect the second ticket.
Ontario International Airport terminal guide
Passenger departures primarily use Terminals 2 and 4. International travelers who require U.S. Customs processing arrive through a separate International Arrivals Terminal. Airline locations can change, so the operating carrier’s current directory wins over old screenshots or memory.
Terminal 2
Current official list: Alaska Airlines, avianca, China Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines and Volaris.
Terminal 4
Current official list: American Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines and STARLUX Airlines.
International Arrivals Terminal
Separate arrivals facility at 2222 International Way for international passengers who need federal inspection. Meet arriving travelers in the public lobby after they complete CBP formalities.
Terminal 2 to Terminal 4: walk or take the airport shuttle?
ONT describes its two passenger terminals as a quick landside walk apart, and the airport shuttle system also serves both terminal islands. The right choice depends on baggage, mobility, weather and whether you have already cleared security.
Walking is a landside option
If you are outside security and traveling light, the terminals are close enough for many passengers to walk. Follow current pedestrian signs rather than cutting through parking lanes.
Courtesy shuttle is better with bags or mobility needs
Airport shuttles pick up at the terminal islands between the parking lots and terminal buildings. They run 24 hours, generally every 5–20 minutes, with less frequent service from about 12:30 a.m. to 3 a.m.
Do not treat the terminal change as an airside connection
If your itinerary requires changing passenger terminals after screening, plan for a landside move and TSA screening at the onward terminal unless your operating airline gives a different same-day instruction.
TSA expansion: what Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 travelers need to know
ONT’s $11 million security expansion began in spring 2025. Terminal 2’s work was completed July 24, 2026; Terminal 4 work is scheduled for completion by the end of August 2026.
Two new lanes complete
Terminal 2 now has two additional screening lanes and a new exit corridor.
One new lane
Terminal 4 is receiving one added screening lane; allow extra time while work is unfinished.
Six screening options
When complete, both terminals are intended to have six screening options.
Restroom upgrades
Family restrooms near screening are being upgraded for easier accessibility.
Build a practical ONT travel plan
These tools run locally in your browser. They do not replace airline cutoffs, live traffic, TSA operations or official parking prices.
Airport-code checker
Check ONT, KONT, LAX, YYZ, YOW or nearby Southern California codes before booking.
Recommended terminal-arrival time
Parking daily-max estimator
Pickup-readiness checker
ONT → LAX connection planner
First check live driving time in Maps, then enter that number here.
ONT TSA checkpoints, REAL ID, PreCheck, CLEAR and peak periods
Domestic baseline
Plan to reach ONT at least two hours before a domestic departure. Add parking-shuttle, checked-bag or construction time before that target.
International baseline
Use at least three hours before an international departure and verify T2 or T4 with the operating airline first.
Checkpoint window
ONT currently lists checkpoints as open about 3:45 a.m.–1 a.m. TSA operating hours can change seasonally or operationally.
| Security detail | Current guidance | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Typical non-peak screening | ONT says the average can be under 20 minutes | Do not use an average to cut your arrival buffer |
| Busy screening | 30 minutes or more can occur | Add time around flight banks and holidays |
| Terminal 2 peaks | Generally 4–7 a.m. and 7–11 p.m. during peak holiday travel | Expect heavier lines |
| Terminal 4 peaks | Generally 5–9 a.m. during peak holiday travel | Add remaining construction margin |
| TSA PreCheck | Available; a dedicated lane may not always be open | Verify the PreCheck indicator on the boarding pass |
| CLEAR | Kiosks are available at T2 and T4 | Confirm staffed lane availability on travel day |
REAL ID is enforced
Since May 7, 2025, a non-REAL-ID state license is not accepted by itself for normal TSA identity verification. A passport and other TSA-listed documents can serve as alternatives.
Digital ID can be optional
ONT announced compatible TSA Digital ID acceptance in 2026. Eligibility depends on the credential/device and TSA lane. Carry a physical accepted ID backup when possible.
Some expired IDs remain acceptable
TSA currently states that listed acceptable IDs may be accepted up to two years after expiration. Check the current TSA identification page before relying on this rule.
International arrivals at ONT: CBP, bags, pickup and connections
Go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection
If ONT is your first U.S. point of entry and you did not complete U.S. preclearance before departure, follow signs through federal inspection.
Collect baggage and complete customs
Follow CBP and airline instructions for baggage. Do not tell a pickup driver to approach the terminal until you have completed the federal process and are entering the public lobby.
Meet drivers at the International Arrivals Terminal
Use 2222 International Way. Lot 1 is the dedicated international-arrivals parking area; airport shuttle pickup from Lot 1 is on request rather than a regular scheduled loop.
Connecting to another U.S. flight
After federal processing, follow the operating airline’s bag-recheck and terminal-transfer instructions. A separate ticket may require a new check-in and TSA screening.
ONT parking rates, lot choice, pre-book rules and EV charging
| Parking | Current published rate | Best use | Important detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot 1 | $6 first hour · $20/day max | International Arrivals | No pre-book; call 909-937-1240 for shuttle |
| Lot 2 General | $10 first hour · $30/day | Terminal 2 convenience | EV charging available |
| Lot 2 Premium | $12 first hour · $35/day | Closest T2 spaces | Premium spaces are not pre-bookable |
| Lot 3 | $25/day | Between T2 and T4 | Short walk to either terminal |
| Lot 4 General | $10 first hour · $30/day | Terminal 4 convenience | EV charging available |
| Lot 4 Premium | $12 first hour · $35/day | Closest T4 spaces | Premium spaces are not pre-bookable |
| Lots 5 & 6 | $20/day | Value / longer stay | Shuttle service; walk option toward T4 |
| Valet T2/T4 | $40/day | Fast curb handoff | Drive-up or pre-book |
Vehicle height
Airport parking lists a 9 ft 6 in height restriction. Large trucks, campers, trailers, RVs and limousines are prohibited.
Surface lots
ONT says its airport parking is not covered. Plan for Southern California sun and weather.
Free EV charging
Charging is currently free on the south side of Lots 2 and 4; normal parking charges still apply.
Free motorcycle parking
Current ONT parking FAQ allows motorcycles to park free in Lots 2 and 4. Do not take a ticket; drive around the gate arm, use the hashed areas near the ends of rows rather than a standard parking space, and exit around the gate arm.
Pre-book parking details that prevent double payment
Passenger pickup, drop-off and the ONT Cell Phone Lot
Dropping off
- Check operating airline and T2/T4 first.
- Use the exact terminal address or airport signs.
- Unload only at the active curb.
- Do not leave the vehicle unattended.
Picking up
- Track the actual arrival status.
- Wait until baggage is collected.
- Get exact terminal / international-arrivals facility.
- Use the free Cell Phone Lot instead of circling.
Rideshare, taxi, ONT Connect Route 380, Metrolink and rental cars
Uber, Lyft, Wingz and Prime Time Rideshare
Collect your baggage first, request the ride in the app and follow Ride-Share Pick-Up Location signs outside the correct passenger terminal. Curb routing can change, so the app and posted airport signs outrank an old screenshot.
Taxi
Taxi ranks are on the outer island in front of each passenger terminal. ONT currently identifies Bell Cab as its taxi partner; dispatch: 909-884-1111. Travelers needing a wheelchair-accessible vehicle should arrange an accessible provider rather than assuming the standard taxi queue can supply one.
ONT Connect Route 380 to Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink
ONT Connect is the airport’s direct public-transit link to Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink Station. Buy a Metrolink ticket with ONT Connect as the origin or destination; the shuttle leg is free with that valid Metrolink ticket. When leaving ONT, exit T2 or T4 and head east/right to the signed stop.
There is no Metrolink platform inside the terminal
The train itself does not enter ONT. Route 380 takes you nonstop between the airport and Rancho Cucamonga Station, where you transfer to Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line.
Rental Car Center
Free airport shuttles connect T2/T4 to the Rental Car Center at 3450 E. Airport Drive. Plan the vehicle return first, then the shuttle, then airline check-in/security.
Airport courtesy shuttles
Shuttles run 24 hours and generally every 5–20 minutes, with less frequent service from about 12:30 a.m. to 3 a.m. T2/T4 stops are on the terminal islands between parking lots and terminal buildings. International Arrivals or USO stops are request-based.
Hotel shuttles
Many nearby hotels offer courtesy shuttles, but ONT recommends arranging hotel transportation about 72 hours in advance rather than assuming a vehicle will be waiting after arrival.
What the official Route 380 PDF adds
The January 2026 Omnitrans PDF confirms a direct, no-stop airport–Rancho Cucamonga route and shows minibuses configured for up to 12 passengers, 2 mobility devices and 2 bicycles. Its printed frequency panel says 30 minutes weekdays and 60 minutes weekends, but the current online timetable is irregular—use the live schedule for an actual trip.
Wheelchair assistance, TSA Cares, autism and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Start with the right provider: airlines—not ONT—provide airline wheelchair and boarding assistance. TSA Cares handles screening support. Airport programs such as Sunflower and autism self-identification help staff understand that a traveler may need extra time or communication support.
Wheelchair service
Request free wheelchair assistance from the operating airline, preferably when booking or at least 72 hours ahead. ONT states tipping is not required.
TSA Cares
Call 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours ahead for disability, medical-condition or special-screening support.
Autism self-identification
ONT offers a voluntary self-identification program so airport personnel can recognize that additional patience, communication or support may be useful.
Get Sunflower materials at the airport
Visit Travelers Aid on the first floor of T2 or T4, ask an O.A.C.E.S. employee in an ONT blue shirt, or ask a participating airline representative.
Request Sunflower materials by mail
ONT recommends contacting the Sunflower program at least three weeks before travel if you want materials mailed before the trip.
Accessible shuttle system
ONT airport courtesy shuttles are wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking is available in airport lots, but individual ADA spaces cannot be reserved.
Restrooms and terminal access
Accessible restrooms are available on every floor, with unisex accessible restrooms on arrivals levels. Current TSA construction can temporarily change the nearest family restroom, so follow signage.
Service-animal relief
Outdoor relief areas are at the far/east ends of terminal buildings. Post-security indoor “Barking Lots” are near Gate 210 in T2 and Gate 410 in T4.
Nursing rooms, hydration, pet relief, lounges, work booths and charging
16 hydration stations
ONT currently lists 16 bottle-filling/hydration stations between Terminals 2 and 4. Bring an empty reusable bottle through TSA and refill after screening.
Nursing rooms
T2: second floor post-security, across from Gate 206 next to Brewery X. T4: second floor post-security, across from Gate 408 next to Subway.
Pet relief
Indoor Barking Lots are near Gate 210 in T2 and Gate 410 in T4; outdoor relief areas are at the far ends of terminal buildings.
FuelRod charging
Post-security FuelRod kiosks in both terminals sell portable reusable battery kits; ordinary electrical charging is also available around terminal seating.
Kabin work booths
ONT now lists six privacy/work booths: three between Gates 209–210 in T2 and three between Gates 410–411 in T4, opposite the Aspire Lounges.
ATMs
PNC ATMs are near the main doors in baggage-claim areas of both passenger terminals.
Food open near your flight
Restaurant hours differ by day and flight schedule. Use the current searchable food/shopping directory rather than a static “open now” list.
Aspire Lounges
Aspire locations are near Gate 210 in T2 and Gate 410 in T4. Admission methods, prices and hours can change; confirm before buying access.
Showers, luggage storage, smoking, quiet space and currency exchange
| Need | What ONT currently says | Best workaround |
|---|---|---|
| Public shower | No public shower is currently offered | Use hotel/gym facilities outside airport if essential |
| Dedicated quiet room | No dedicated quiet room | Use a Kabin work booth |
| Currency exchange | No onsite exchange service | Airport points to Currency Exchange International at Ontario Mills Mall, about 3 miles away |
| Smoking / vaping | Not allowed inside | Outside at least 20 ft from building; leaving security means TSA rescreening |
| General luggage storage | No general public storage/wrapping service | Keep luggage with you; USO services are limited to eligible military families |
ONT+ Visitor Pass: meet family at the gate without a flight ticket
ONT+ is a free program for approved non-ticketed visitors to enter post-security areas of Terminal 2 or Terminal 4, subject to TSA review and daily capacity.
Apply ahead or same day
Apply on the visit day or up to seven days in advance. Advance approvals arrive after midnight on visit day; same-day status can arrive within about 15 minutes.
General screening only
ONT+ cannot use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR. Visitors go through the general checkpoint and follow passenger screening rules.
One personal item
No hand-carried luggage is allowed; visitor-pass users are limited to one personal item such as a purse or laptop bag.
Terminal-specific
The pass is approved for a particular passenger terminal and start time, with access currently listed through 9 p.m.
KONT runway, size and 2026 passenger context
North runway
FAA: Runway 08L/26R is 12,197 × 150 ft.
South runway
FAA: Runway 08R/26L is 10,200 × 150 ft.
2025 passengers
The airport reports more than 7.1 million travelers in 2025.
First half of 2026
ONT reported 3,412,579 passengers through June 2026, including 346,219 international travelers.
90+ daily departures
Airport carrier materials advertise 90+ daily departures and service to roughly 30 nonstop destinations.
No slot controls
Current carrier information states that ONT has no slot controls.
No airport-wide curfew
Current carrier information states no airport-wide noise restrictions or curfews; actual flight operations remain subject to airline/ATC constraints.
ONT BOLD: proposed Terminal 3 is future infrastructure, not today’s passenger terminal
In May 2026, ONT began environmental review for the ONT BOLD expansion concept, including a proposed new Terminal 3, modernization of Terminals 2 and 4, roadway/curb changes, parking and rental-car improvements.
Watch: “This Is ONT” from Ontario International Airport
The airport’s own 90-second video is useful for understanding ONT’s positioning as a Southern California gateway. It is an orientation/brand video rather than live navigation guidance, so use the current maps and airline directory for travel-day decisions.
Lost baggage or lost item: contact the correct office
| Where item was lost | Who handles it | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| On aircraft, airline counter or checked baggage | Operating airline | Use the airline baggage/lost-item process with flight/date details |
| Terminal/public airport area | ONT Lost & Found | Submit official form; call before visiting |
| Airport courtesy or rental-car shuttle | ONT Lost & Found first | Items may be routed to Rental Car Center; confirm before driving there |
Office location
Terminal 2, behind Information Desk
2500 E. Airport Drive
Ontario, CA 91761
Phone and standard hours
909-544-5128
Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Closed weekends/holidays; call first because periodic closures occur.
Before leaving for Ontario International Airport
- Verify the booking says ONT, not an Ontario, Canada airport.
- Confirm operating airline and Terminal 2 or 4.
- Check actual flight status on the official flight page.
- Use the correct terminal or facility address in Maps.
- Add extra T4 screening time through August 2026 construction.
- Check airline bag-drop/check-in cutoff.
- Pre-book parking when close-in lots may fill.
- Use Cell Phone Lot until an arriving passenger is ready.
- Request rideshare only after collecting baggage.
- Coordinate ONT Connect with Metrolink schedule.
- Allow overnight shuttle frequency to be slower.
- Arrange airline wheelchair assistance 72 hours ahead when possible.
- Keep medications, ID and critical documents in carry-on.
- For ONT→LAX, check live traffic and protect the second flight.
Ontario International Airport contact information
Frequently asked questions about Ontario International Airport (ONT)
What is the Ontario airport code?
Is ONT airport in California or Canada?
What is KONT?
Is ONT the same airport as LAX?
How do I get from ONT to LAX?
Which address should I use for Ontario Airport?
How many passenger terminals does ONT have?
Which airlines use Terminal 2 at ONT?
Which airlines use Terminal 4 at ONT?
Can I walk between Terminal 2 and Terminal 4?
How often do ONT airport shuttles run?
How early should I arrive at ONT?
What are ONT security checkpoint hours?
Does ONT have TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?
Does ONT accept REAL ID and digital ID?
How much is parking at Ontario Airport?
Is ONT parking covered?
Do motorcycles park free at ONT?
Can I leave and re-enter with an ONT parking reservation?
Where is the ONT Cell Phone Waiting Lot?
Where do I pick up Uber or Lyft at ONT?
Does ONT have a train station inside the airport?
What does the ONT Connect Route 380 PDF show?
How do I get to the ONT Rental Car Center?
Does ONT have a visitor pass for non-ticketed guests?
Can ONT+ visitors use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR?
Where are nursing rooms at ONT?
Does ONT have pet relief areas?
Does ONT have luggage storage, public showers or currency exchange?
Where is Ontario Airport Lost and Found?
Does ONT have an airport curfew?
Official-source, PDF and freshness policy
This guide prioritizes current Ontario International Airport, FAA, TSA and public-transit sources over stale third-party airport pages. The official ONT landside resource offers a printable ground-transport map, and the January 2026 Omnitrans Route 380 PDF was audited for route geometry, frequency guidance, vehicle capacity and accessibility. PDF airline labels are not treated as current terminal truth; the live ONT airline directory overrides them.