$140 Cheap Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP)
Popular airlines from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
Be in the knowGet alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
Book smarterSave up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to Panama City (LAX-ECP)
Alternative airports near Panama City
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Book with confidence
Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP) at a glance
Choose from a variety of airlines offering flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP) on this domestic short-haul route. You can compare options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel schedule while you explore the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Panama City. Check out the essential details for your next flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP).
- Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 5h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,900 miles (3,060 km)
- Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $150–$530, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Los Angeles to Panama City, often selected for their one-stop options. Common layover points include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) with a layover of about 1 hour. This flexibility allows you to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to create your ideal itinerary.
- Delta: As a comprehensive service airline, Delta provides one-stop options with one-way fares generally ranging from $150 to $515. It represents about 32% of flights on this route, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
- Southwest Airlines: Operating as a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest offers one-stop service with one-way ticket prices typically between $160 and $530. This airline accounts for roughly 23% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 5 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of around 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
- United: Known for its full-service offerings, United provides one-stop travel with one-way fares usually ranging from $155 to $530. It makes up about 23% of departures on this route, with a flight duration of 5 hours and 15 minutes and an overall journey time of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline offers one-stop travel with one-way fares typically falling between $170 and $505. American Airlines accounts for close to 22% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 5 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel time of roughly 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
Travelers flying from Los Angeles to Panama City can opt for an upgrade, as United provides first-class service on this route.
Best time to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Los Angeles to Panama City are March, April, and May, when peak temperatures in Panama City reach up to 75°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 79.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $246). Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $246, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: July, January, and October typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $249 to $263.
- Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Los Angeles to Panama City, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 54.1°F (12.3°C) | Average | 9 | $254 |
| February | 57.9°F (14.4°C) | Low | 8 | $351 |
| March | 62.8°F (17.1°C) | High | 10 | $324 |
| April | 68.4°F (20.2°C) | High | 10 | $327 |
| May | 75.0°F (23.9°C) | High | 14 | $291 |
| June | 81.1°F (27.3°C) | Low | 9 | $273 |
| July | 82.6°F (28.1°C) | Average | 11 | $249 |
| August | 82.8°F (28.2°C) | Average | 9 | $286 |
| September | 79.5°F (26.4°C) | Low | 8 | $246 |
| October | 72.0°F (22.2°C) | Average | 10 | $263 |
| November | 62.4°F (16.9°C) | Average | 11 | $291 |
| December | 58.1°F (14.5°C) | Average | 11 | $271 |
*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.
Alternative routes from Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP)
- Los Angeles to Fort Walton Beach (LAX-VPS): Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) is located approximately 46 miles from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP). One-way economy ticket prices on this route generally fall between $145 and $535, influenced by the season and timing of the booking. This route typically features one-stop itineraries, with common layovers at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines operating on this route include American Airlines and Delta, with first-class service also available.
- Burbank to Panama City (BUR-ECP): Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is roughly 18 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). On this route, one-way economy fares usually range from $180 to $515, varying by season and booking time. Travelers can choose between one-stop and non-stop flights, with popular layover points at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Denver International Airport (DEN). Leading carriers for this journey include Southwest Airlines (a low-cost option) and American Airlines, with both business and first-class service provided.
How to find the best prices for flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Los Angeles to Panama City is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 AM to 12 PM often provide lower prices and are the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally offers cheaper rates, while Thursday remains the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.
Arriving at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport from Los Angeles International Airport
Panama City welcomes travelers from Los Angeles with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Panama City efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Panama City, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport on Expedia.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
Los Angeles to Panama City Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Los Angeles to Panama City
On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Los Angeles to Panama City are during the month of December. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Los Angeles to Panama City with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Los Angeles to Panama City
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Los Angeles to Panama City: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.
How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Los Angeles to Panama City
Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Los Angeles to Panama City in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $140 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.
Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Los Angeles to Panama City flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.
You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Los Angeles to Panama City airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.
*Terms apply.
Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $140 and cheap return flights $279 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $233 and $974, and roundtrip flights usually range from $381 to $1321. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.
*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to Panama City, FL (ECP), with average return fares around $384. This is about 19% lower than the average price throughout the year, as January often experiences lower travel demand after the holiday season. Other affordable months to consider are August and October.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
Enter LAX to ECP and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
For flights from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to Panama City, FL (ECP), January and October are the best months to travel. You can find average return flight prices around $384, which is quite reasonable. January is great as it follows the holiday rush, while October offers pleasant weather and a quieter travel experience.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Panama City (ECP) usually departs at around 12:05 AM local time, operated by United Airlines. This service is seasonal, active in July. An early departure allows you to make the most of your time in Panama City. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
How long does it take to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
A flight from LAX to ECP with a layover takes around 7 hours 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 1,915 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the LAX to ECP route. First class cabins are available on:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Panama City from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX)?
From Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), you can fly into Tocumen Intl. (PTY) and Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. (ECP) in Panama City. Some flights may connect through major hubs like El Salvador Intl. (SAL), La Aurora Intl. (GUA), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW) before reaching Panama City. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
If you booked your Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.
Travel information
Origin airport | Los Angeles Intl. |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport |
Distance | 1,915 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest Airlines |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $279 |