United Club

The United Club at Los Angeles airport (LAX), Terminal 7, by gate 71A has been undergoing transformations while United is refurbishing their terminal and building a brand new United Club. The lounge currently has a very temporary feel, and depending on when you visit you might be impacted by construction. One thing is sure, though: the club is bound to be busy. So busy, in fact, that United currently doesn’t sell or accept one-time passes at this location, and has downgraded the Global First Lounge by gate 73 to an overflow United Club.

United Club – Los Angeles, CA (LAX) by gate 71A

United Club LAX design

With the ongoing construction, the club is narrower than it used to be, and currently lacks windows for the most part. While United has modernized the lighting, the experience remains bleak. United has scrapped the former design and re-organized the space into four rooms. From left to right when you enter are a bar area, a seating area with two buffet zones, a larger seating area, and in the back a business area with high tables suitable for laptop users. Counter-style seating also runs along most walls, and power outlets are available throughout.

All seating arrangements have a common trait — they’re dense. The club has the vibe of a bus station at most times, with crowds and little space to walk around. Interestingly the back room with high tables tends to be far quieter, which makes it a good spot if you have work to do.

United Club – Los Angeles, CA (LAX) by gate 71A

United Club LAX amenities

While United Club serves international and p.s. (premium service) transcontinental flights, it doesn’t offer any noteworthy amenities — there are no showers, private spaces, or even a TV room.

Both United Clubs at LAX do feature United’s recently enhanced food selection, though, with hard broiled eggs, yoghurt and berries in the morning, and soups and salads throughout the day. While simple, the selection is palatable overall and suitable for a light meal or snack on the ground; it’s unfortunate however that the staff seems to have such a hard time replenishing the spread in a timely manner and maintaining the appearance and upkeep of the buffet.

United Club LAX bottom line

Overall, the United Club at Los Angeles airport (LAX), Terminal 7, by gate 71A is a truly underwhelming facility. It delivers on basics such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and basic food (although you’ll want to exercise patience if it’s not immediately replenished) but fails to provide a relaxing, private or pleasant environment. Come in with low expectations, and be sure to leave early if your flight depart from Terminal 8 (gate 80 and beyond.) The overflow United Club by gate 73 is equally packed but benefits from daylight and views, and might be a welcome alternative.

United Club – Los Angeles, CA (LAX) by gate 71A

While United is working on a brand new club which will include an outdoor deck, the new facility won’t open until December 2016. In the meantime, United offers the saddest lounges at LAX.

For information on other lounges at LAX, possible alternatives, and connections between terminals, check out our Definitive Guide to the LAX Lounge Scene.