Aviation/Century

Aviation Century Los Angeles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Aviation Century Los Angeles and Its Significance

At the crossroads of Aviation and Century Boulevards, the Aviation/Century area stands as a powerful testament to Los Angeles’ pioneering spirit in aviation, urban evolution, and cutting-edge transit. Deeply linked to Southern California’s legacy of flight, this district honors aviation trailblazers such as Amelia Earhart and Howard Hughes, and landmark events like the 1910 Los Angeles Air Meet, which solidified the region’s place as a global aerospace hub. Its close proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)—opened in 1928 as Mines Field—further highlights its central role in shaping both local and international air travel (Curbed LA; Wikipedia: History of LAX).

Today, Aviation/Century is undergoing a dramatic transformation. The November 2024 launch of the Aviation/Century Metro Station connects travelers via Metro’s C and K Lines. This is a cornerstone of the $900 million LAX/Metro Transit Center, which will soon offer a 24/7 Automated People Mover directly linking the station to all airport terminals. Visitors now enjoy a dynamic mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and accessible, modern transit options—including easy-to-use TAP cards for Metro services (NBC Los Angeles; LA Times).

Whether you’re a history buff, a traveler seeking efficient airport access, or someone eager to experience LA’s rich cultural mosaic, the Aviation/Century district offers something for everyone. This guide covers visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and insights into the ongoing urban projects positioning Aviation/Century as both a gateway to LAX and a thriving urban destination.

Aviation/Century station platform on opening day with people and trains

Aviation Century station plaza bustling with people and activity the day after opening day

Aviation Century station plaza with modern architecture and blue sky

Train testing at Aviation/Century station in Los Angeles in October 2024

Discovering Aviation/Century: History, Visitor Info, and Urban Growth
Aviation/Century Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Accessibility & Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Insights
Summary and Final Tips
References and Further Reading

Discovering Aviation/Century: History, Visitor Info, and Urban Growth

Early Aviation Roots and the Birth of a District

Aviation/Century is steeped in the legacy of early flight. In the early 1900s, Southern California’s climate, open land, and visionary innovators fueled the birth of American aviation. Pioneers such as Amelia Earhart, Howard Hughes, and William Jenifer Powell—who mentored future Tuskegee Airmen—helped position Los Angeles as a leader in aerospace (Curbed LA).

The 1910 Los Angeles Air Meet at Dominguez Field drew over 200,000 attendees and was the world’s second public powered flight demonstration. This event catalyzed the region’s aviation boom, bringing major manufacturers like Lockheed and Northrop to the area. By the 1920s, there were over 50 airfields within 30 miles of downtown LA, illustrating the city’s aeronautical ambitions.

The Evolution of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

The district’s identity is tightly linked to LAX, which opened as Mines Field in 1928. Its first structure, Hangar No. 1—an enduring Spanish Colonial Revival landmark—remains on the National Register of Historic Places (Wikipedia: History of LAX). LAX quickly evolved into the region’s aviation epicenter, with post-WWII expansion and critical infrastructure such as the Airport Tunnel and the rerouting of Sepulveda Boulevard in the 1950s shaping the modern airport and its surroundings.

Urban Development and the Rise of the Aviation/Century Corridor

As LAX expanded, the Aviation/Century corridor became a major thoroughfare for airport access and commerce. The area developed with mid-century motels, hotels, and office complexes catering to travelers and airline employees. Freeways like I-405 and I-105 integrated the district into greater Los Angeles, establishing it as a key logistics and employment zone.

The Metro Rail Era: Modern Connectivity and Transformation

The November 2024 opening of the Aviation/Century Metro Station marked a pivotal chapter in district growth, providing seamless transit access to LAX and the broader LA region (NBC Los Angeles). As the western terminus of the Metro C Line and a key transfer point for the K Line, the station anchors the $900 million LAX/Metro Transit Center, which will be further enhanced by a 24/7 Automated People Mover system scheduled for 2026 (LA Times).

Visiting Aviation/Century: Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips

Station Hours: Daily, 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM; Automated People Mover will operate 24/7.
Tickets: TAP cards are required and can be purchased at kiosks or online. Fares are affordable, with daily and weekly caps for frequent users.
Accessibility: ADA-compliant facilities include elevators, ramps, and tactile signage.
Nearby Attractions: Historic Hangar No. 1, aviation museums, and the lively Inglewood district.
Tours & Events: Seasonal guided tours of aviation history and LAX modernization are available—check Metro or local listings for details.
Photo Opportunities: The intersection offers excellent vantage points for airport and city views.

Socioeconomic and Cultural Significance

The corridor mirrors LA’s multicultural dynamism, with businesses and restaurants serving a global clientele. Major transit investments promote equitable access, support airport workers, and advance regional sustainability by encouraging transit and cycling (LA Times).

Ongoing and Future Urban Projects

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, ongoing projects—including the $30 billion LAX modernization—are reshaping the area with new terminals, parking, and direct rail-to-airport connections (LA Times).

Key Facts and Figures

LAX Opening: October 1, 1928 (Wikipedia: History of LAX)
Aviation/Century Station Opening: November 3, 2024 (NBC Los Angeles)
Transit Center Launch: June 6, 2025 (LA Times)
Automated People Mover: Early 2026
Modernization Budget: $30 billion (LA Times)
People Mover Frequency: Every 2 minutes during peak, 24/7 (LA Times)

Aviation/Century Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Accessibility & Travel Tips

Welcome to Aviation/Century Station

Aviation/Century Station is the prime gateway between Metro Rail and LAX, designed for efficient transfers, comfort, and accessibility.

Visiting Hours and Service Frequency

Operating Hours: Daily, approximately 3:49 AM to 12:08 AM (Metro C Line schedule).
Trains: Arrive every 10 minutes during peak, 12–15 minutes off-peak; schedules may vary on holidays.

Ticketing Information

TAP Cards: Purchase at ground-level vending machines or online.
Fares: $1.75 for a standard ride; daily cap of $5, weekly cap of $18; discounts for seniors, students, and disabled riders.

Station Layout and Design Highlights

Elevated Platforms: Center platforms accessible via stairs, escalators, and elevators, offering panoramic city views.
Architectural Features: Open, light-filled spaces with glass walls and public art installations that celebrate local culture.

Accessibility Features

Fully ADA-Compliant: Elevators, wide gates, tactile paving, Braille signage, and accessible restrooms ensure convenience for all travelers.

Intermodal Connections

LAX Shuttle G: Free shuttle links the station and all LAX terminals (every 15–20 minutes).
Metro and Municipal Buses: Multiple connections for broader LA access.
Automated People Mover: Direct terminal access starting in early 2026.

Passenger Amenities

Waiting Areas: Covered, with seating and wind screens.
Safety: Surveillance cameras, emergency call boxes, and Metro security.
Bike Facilities: Racks and lockers available.
Note: Limited public restrooms; use airport facilities if needed.

Nearby Attractions and Tips for Visitors

Dining & Shopping: Westchester offers diverse food options and retail centers.
Travel Tips: Buy TAP cards in advance, check shuttle schedules, pack light for easy transfers, and use Metro’s real-time apps.

Notable Attractions Near Aviation/Century Station

LAX/Metro Transit Center and Automated People Mover

The LAX/Metro Transit Center, opening June 2025, links Metro lines, a 16-bay bus plaza, and a multilevel bike hub. Glenn Kaino’s “The Distance of the Sun” sculpture greets passengers. The Automated People Mover (APM), starting service in early 2026, will run 24/7, providing seamless access between the Metro and all LAX terminals.

Aviation and Aerospace Museums

Flight Path Learning Center and Museum: Located at LAX Imperial Terminal; features airline memorabilia, a restored DC-3, and free admission.
Museum of Flying: At Santa Monica Airport; highlights regional aerospace history.
Western Museum of Flight: In Torrance; displays military aircraft and hosts lectures.
Burbank Aviation Museum: Portal of the Folded Wings, open Sundays.

Major Los Angeles Attractions

Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame: Reachable via Metro.
The Getty Center: Free admission; renowned art and city views.
The Grove, Griffith Observatory, and Santa Monica Pier: All accessible via Metro with transfers.

Local Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment

Westchester and neighboring districts offer a variety of global cuisines, shopping centers like Westfield Culver City, and frequent farmers markets and community events.

Community Art and Public Installations

“Rise” by Sherin Guirguis, a vibrant installation at the station, celebrates the area’s diversity and migration stories.

Cultural Districts and Storytelling Heritage

Westchester: Suburban-urban blend with family-friendly vibes.
Inglewood: Home to SoFi Stadium and thriving arts, music, and food scenes.
South Los Angeles: Known for historic civil rights sites and cultural resilience.

Demographics and Multiculturalism

Los Angeles’ diversity is reflected in the neighborhood: 47% Hispanic/Latino, 29% non-Hispanic White, 12% Asian, 8% Black/African American, and over 200 languages spoken.

Lifestyle and Local Values

Residents enjoy active lifestyles, sustainable transit, and regular community engagement through events and outdoor activities.

Events and Festivals

LA County Air Show: Annual aviation spectacle in Lancaster.
Cultural Festivals: Music, food, and art events in Inglewood and Westchester.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Avoid Rush Hours: 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM.
Safety: Well-lit, secure platforms.
Accessibility: Elevators and bike lockers available.
Guided Tours: Check museum websites for special programs.

Proximity to Major Venues

SoFi Stadium: Short Metro ride for sports and concerts.
Culver City/Playa Vista: Tech and entertainment hubs.
Venice Beach/Marina del Rey: For beach and water activities.

Community Engagement

Local organizations foster community through public art, gardens, and storytelling festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Aviation/Century station’s hours?
A: Open daily, approximately 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

Q: How do I buy Metro tickets?
A: Purchase TAP cards at station vending machines or online.

Q: Is the station wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, and tactile paving.

Q: Are there parking facilities?
A: No dedicated parking; street parking and park-and-ride options nearby.

Q: When will the Automated People Mover be operational?
A: Early 2026.

Q: Are nearby museums free?
A: Some, like Flight Path Learning Center, offer free admission; others may charge a small fee.

Visuals and Interactive Features

High-resolution images and interactive maps of the station and LAX modernization are available on the official Metro site and Transit.Wiki page. Alt tags such as “Aviation/Century visiting hours signage” and “Aviation/Century tickets counter” enhance accessibility.

Stay Connected and Plan Your Trip

For the latest info, visit the Gateway LA project page and follow Metro’s social media. Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, trip planning, and exclusive tours.

Summary of Key Points About Visiting Aviation Century Los Angeles and Final Tips

Aviation/Century is where LA’s aviation heritage meets modern transit and urban vibrancy. Its new Metro station and forthcoming Automated People Mover revolutionize airport access, supporting sustainable and equitable mobility (NBC Los Angeles; LA Times). The district thrives as a cultural hub, with public art, diverse communities, and proximity to key attractions. Major investments ensure continued growth ahead of the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. Whether exploring LA’s history or heading to LAX, plan with up-to-date transit info and embrace all the Aviation/Century district has to offer.