Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), originally known as Mines Field, opened in 1930 on 640 acres of wheat fields, 18 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles in the Westchester district. Initially featuring two dirt landing strips, it was renamed "Los Angeles International Airport" in 1949. Today, LAX spans over 3,500 acres and boasts four parallel runways exceeding 9,000 feet in length. In 2023, LAX handled approximately 75 million passengers, ranking as the eighth-busiest airport globally. The airport serves as a gateway to the Pacific Rim, offering flights to 113 domestic and 91 international destinations. A notable landmark is the iconic "Theme Building," resembling a flying saucer, symbolizing the airport's futuristic design.