The duration of a journey between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a crucial factor for travelers. This involves not only the actual airborne time but also considerations such as boarding, taxiing, and potential delays. A typical nonstop journey might take approximately five hours, while connecting flights can significantly extend the overall travel duration.
Understanding the typical range for this travel duration empowers travelers to plan effectively. Accurate time estimations are vital for scheduling connecting flights, ground transportation, and other logistical arrangements. Historically, this route has seen fluctuations in average flight times due to factors such as air traffic control, weather patterns, and airline scheduling practices. Being aware of these potential variations is key for minimizing disruptions to travel plans.
This understanding of travel duration forms the basis for exploring related topics such as optimal flight selection strategies, minimizing travel fatigue, and maximizing time efficiency during trips between these two major airport hubs. Further exploration will delve into these aspects to provide a comprehensive guide for travelers.
1. Nonstop Flight Duration
Nonstop flight duration forms the baseline for understanding overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX). It represents the quickest possible flight time, excluding layovers and connections, and serves as a critical benchmark against which other travel options are measured. A thorough understanding of this baseline allows for informed decision-making regarding flight selection and overall trip planning.
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Scheduled Flight Time
Airlines publish scheduled flight times for nonstop routes. For CLT to LAX, this typically ranges between 4 hours and 50 minutes to 5 hours and 30 minutes. This advertised duration represents the estimated time an aircraft spends in the air, from gate departure at CLT to gate arrival at LAX. However, it doesn’t encompass taxiing, potential holding patterns, or other unforeseen delays.
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Actual Flight Time Variability
While scheduled times provide a general guideline, actual flight times can vary. Factors influencing this variability include air traffic control directives, weather conditions, and occasional mechanical issues. Flights may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, impacting connecting flight schedules and ground transportation arrangements.
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Impact on Overall Travel Time
Nonstop flight duration significantly impacts overall travel time. By minimizing time spent on the ground, travelers reduce the total duration of their journey. This is especially crucial for time-sensitive trips or those seeking to minimize travel fatigue. Comparing nonstop durations with connecting flight options reveals the time-saving benefits of a direct route.
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Cost Considerations
Nonstop flights often command a premium price compared to connecting flights. While they offer the advantage of shorter travel times, travelers must weigh the cost benefit against the potential savings offered by connecting flights, particularly when time constraints are less stringent. Understanding the relationship between nonstop duration and price facilitates informed budget allocation.
By analyzing nonstop flight duration, travelers establish a realistic expectation for the minimum travel time required for a CLT to LAX journey. This understanding, coupled with awareness of potential variations and cost implications, empowers informed decision-making and contributes to smoother, more efficient travel experiences.
2. Connecting Flight Options
Connecting flight options significantly influence overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX). While nonstop flights offer the shortest travel duration, connecting flights introduce additional variables that can substantially extend the total time en route. Understanding these variables is crucial for accurate travel planning and managing expectations.
The primary factor impacting overall travel time with connecting flights is the layover duration. Layovers can range from as short as one hour to several hours, depending on the connecting airport and airline schedules. A short layover can introduce the risk of missed connections if the initial flight experiences delays. Longer layovers, while providing more buffer time, increase the overall journey duration. For instance, a connecting flight through Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with a two-hour layover could add a minimum of four hours to the overall travel time, considering the time required for deplaning, navigating the connecting airport, and boarding the subsequent flight. Alternatively, a connection through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a one-hour layover presents a tighter connection window but minimizes the additional time spent on the ground.
Connecting flights often involve multiple airlines, particularly through interline agreements. This can introduce complexities in baggage transfer and potential discrepancies in service levels. Additionally, choosing connecting flights necessitates careful consideration of the connecting airport. Larger hub airports, while offering more frequent connections, can be more challenging to navigate, potentially leading to delays. Smaller airports may offer simpler transfers but may have fewer flight options and potentially longer layovers. The choice between a single connection and multiple connections also impacts overall travel time. While multiple connections might offer lower fares, they typically involve longer layovers and increased risk of delays, ultimately extending the total journey duration.
Strategic selection of connecting flights involves balancing cost considerations, layover duration, and the potential for delays. While connecting flights might offer cost savings compared to nonstop options, the extended travel time represents a trade-off that requires careful evaluation based on individual travel priorities. Understanding the interplay of these factors empowers informed decision-making and allows travelers to select the most appropriate connecting flight option based on their specific needs and constraints. This knowledge contributes to a more predictable and manageable travel experience, despite the inherent complexities of connecting flights.
3. Layover Times
Layover times represent a critical component within the overall duration of flights from Charlotte (CLT) to Los Angeles (LAX). When opting for connecting flights rather than nonstop options, the duration of layovers significantly influences total travel time. A thorough understanding of layover implications is essential for effective travel planning and management.
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Minimum Connection Time
Airlines establish minimum connection times for each airport, representing the shortest permissible layover duration. These minimums account for factors such as deplaning, navigating the connecting airport, and reaching the departure gate for the onward flight. Shorter layovers increase the risk of missed connections, especially if the initial flight experiences delays. Adhering to minimum connection times, while potentially extending overall travel time, minimizes the likelihood of disruptions.
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Layover Duration and Travel Fatigue
Extended layovers, while offering a buffer against delays, can contribute to travel fatigue. Spending multiple hours in an airport can be tiring, particularly for longer transcontinental journeys like CLT to LAX. Travelers must balance the benefit of a longer layover’s reduced risk against the potential for increased fatigue. Factors such as airport amenities and personal preferences influence this decision.
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Strategic Use of Layovers
Layovers can be strategically utilized for short excursions or to break up a long journey. A longer layover in a city en route could allow for a brief sightseeing opportunity or a meal outside the airport environment. However, such strategic layovers require careful planning and consideration of visa requirements, ground transportation options, and potential delays impacting the subsequent flight.
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Impact on Overall Travel Time
The cumulative effect of layover durations directly impacts the overall travel time from CLT to LAX. Multiple short layovers, while seemingly efficient, can introduce greater risk compared to a single longer layover. Evaluating the total layover time across all connections is essential for accurately estimating total travel duration and making informed choices based on individual travel priorities.
Careful consideration of layover times is crucial for managing the complexities of connecting flights between CLT and LAX. Balancing the need for sufficient connection time with the desire to minimize overall travel duration and fatigue represents a key aspect of efficient travel planning. Understanding the various facets of layover management empowers travelers to make informed decisions that align with their individual travel needs and preferences, ultimately contributing to a smoother and more predictable journey.
4. Airline Schedules
Airline schedules play a pivotal role in determining the overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX). The frequency of flights, departure and arrival times, and the availability of nonstop versus connecting options directly influence the duration of a journey. Understanding how airline schedules impact travel time is essential for effective planning and optimizing travel arrangements.
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Frequency of Flights
The number of flights offered per day between CLT and LAX significantly impacts travel flexibility and potential layover times. Airlines with more frequent flights provide greater flexibility in choosing departure and arrival times, allowing travelers to select options that best suit their schedules. Conversely, less frequent flights may necessitate longer layovers or less desirable departure times, potentially extending overall travel time.
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Departure and Arrival Times
Scheduled departure and arrival times directly influence the total travel duration. Early morning departures might allow for arrival in Los Angeles earlier in the day, maximizing available time at the destination. However, these early departures can also require significant adjustments to sleep schedules. Late evening arrivals, while convenient for some, might limit evening activities upon arrival. Careful consideration of departure and arrival times is essential for aligning travel plans with individual needs.
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Nonstop versus Connecting Flights
Airline schedules dictate the availability of nonstop and connecting flights. Nonstop flights typically offer the shortest travel time between CLT and LAX, while connecting flights often involve longer durations due to layovers and transfers. The choice between nonstop and connecting options often involves balancing travel time with cost considerations, as nonstop flights frequently command a price premium.
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Seasonal Variations
Airline schedules are subject to seasonal adjustments. During peak travel seasons, airlines often increase flight frequency to accommodate higher demand. However, this increased traffic can also lead to greater potential for delays due to congestion. Off-peak seasons may experience reduced flight frequency, potentially limiting travel options and necessitating longer layovers or less desirable departure times.
Effective analysis of airline schedules is paramount for optimizing travel time between CLT and LAX. Considering factors such as flight frequency, departure and arrival times, and the availability of nonstop options empowers travelers to make informed decisions that minimize travel duration and maximize efficiency. Understanding seasonal variations and potential schedule changes further enhances travel planning and allows for proactive adjustments to itineraries, ensuring a smoother and more predictable travel experience.
5. Potential Delays
Potential delays represent a significant factor influencing overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX). While scheduled flight times provide a baseline, various unpredictable factors can disrupt air travel, leading to extended journey durations. Understanding the potential causes of delays and their impact on travel plans is crucial for managing expectations and mitigating disruptions.
Several common factors contribute to flight delays. Weather conditions, including storms, fog, and extreme temperatures, can significantly impact flight operations, leading to ground holds, rerouting, or cancellations. Air traffic congestion, particularly at busy hub airports like CLT and LAX, can cause delays as aircraft await available takeoff and landing slots. Mechanical issues, while less frequent, can necessitate repairs or aircraft substitutions, potentially leading to significant delays. Security concerns or unforeseen events can also disrupt air travel, causing delays or cancellations. For example, a severe thunderstorm in Charlotte could delay the departure of a flight to Los Angeles, impacting connecting flights and subsequent travel arrangements. Similarly, air traffic congestion in Los Angeles might lead to arrival delays, affecting ground transportation connections and scheduled activities.
Minimizing the impact of potential delays requires proactive planning and flexibility. Travelers should monitor weather forecasts and flight status updates closely. Building buffer time into itineraries, especially for connecting flights, can provide a cushion against unexpected delays. Utilizing real-time flight tracking applications can offer up-to-the-minute information about potential delays, allowing travelers to make informed decisions and adjust plans accordingly. Understanding airline delay policies and exploring alternative travel options in case of cancellations can further mitigate disruptions. While unforeseen circumstances can inevitably impact travel plans, anticipating potential delays and implementing proactive strategies can significantly reduce stress and facilitate smoother travel experiences between CLT and LAX.
6. Time Zone Difference
The three-hour time difference between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), located in the Eastern Time Zone, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), situated in the Pacific Time Zone, significantly impacts perceived and actual travel time between these two locations. While a nonstop flight might have a scheduled duration of five hours, the westward journey results in a net loss of three hours relative to the traveler’s originating time zone. This means that departing CLT at 8:00 a.m. EST results in an arrival at LAX at 10:00 a.m. PST, despite five hours spent in transit.
This time zone shift necessitates careful consideration when planning itineraries. Travelers must account for this difference when scheduling meetings, making ground transportation arrangements, and managing overall fatigue. For example, a business traveler departing CLT at 8:00 a.m. EST for a 2:00 p.m. PST meeting in Los Angeles must consider the three-hour time difference, allowing ample time for travel, airport procedures, and ground transportation to ensure timely arrival. Ignoring this time difference could result in scheduling conflicts and missed appointments. Similarly, leisure travelers must adjust their expectations for arrival times and available daylight hours at their destination. A traveler expecting a full afternoon upon arrival in Los Angeles after an early morning departure from Charlotte must account for the time zone change and adjust planned activities accordingly.
Understanding the impact of the time zone difference between CLT and LAX is crucial for accurate travel planning and effective time management. Failing to account for this shift can lead to logistical challenges, scheduling conflicts, and disrupted itineraries. Accurate awareness of the time difference allows travelers to optimize their travel experience, ensuring efficient use of time and minimizing potential disruptions.
7. Seasonal Variations
Seasonal variations significantly influence flight times between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX). Demand fluctuations throughout the year impact airline schedules, pricing, and the overall travel experience. Understanding these seasonal trends allows travelers to anticipate potential challenges and optimize travel plans.
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Peak Season Congestion
Peak travel seasons, such as summer holidays and major holidays, typically experience increased flight demand. This surge leads to higher air traffic volume, potentially causing delays both in the air and on the ground at CLT and LAX. Longer taxi times, potential holding patterns, and increased competition for gate availability can extend overall travel time. Booking flights during these periods often requires greater flexibility and acceptance of potential delays.
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Off-Peak Travel Advantages
Traveling during off-peak seasons, such as spring or fall, often presents advantages regarding flight times. Lower demand typically translates to reduced air traffic congestion, potentially leading to shorter taxi times and fewer delays. Flights during these periods may also offer greater schedule flexibility and potentially lower fares, although the availability of nonstop flights might be reduced.
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Weather-Related Delays
Certain seasons present a higher risk of weather-related delays. Winter storms can disrupt flight operations at both CLT and LAX, leading to delays or cancellations. Hurricane season, primarily affecting the southeastern United States, can impact departures from CLT. Summer thunderstorms, while generally localized, can also cause delays. Monitoring weather forecasts and considering travel insurance can mitigate potential disruptions.
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Impact on Connecting Flights
Seasonal variations also influence connecting flight options. During peak seasons, the increased demand for connecting flights can lead to longer layovers and greater potential for missed connections due to delays. Off-peak seasons might offer shorter layovers, but fewer connecting flight options might be available. Careful consideration of connecting airport efficiency and layover durations is crucial during all seasons.
By understanding the influence of seasonal variations on CLT to LAX flight times, travelers can make informed decisions that optimize their travel experience. Anticipating potential delays, considering alternative travel dates, and remaining flexible with itineraries contribute to a smoother and more predictable journey, regardless of the season.
8. Day of Week Impact
Flight times between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX) experience variations based on the day of the week. Understanding these fluctuations is crucial for optimizing travel schedules and managing expectations regarding potential delays and congestion. Analyzing day-of-week trends allows travelers to make informed decisions about departure dates and minimize potential travel disruptions.
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Weekday Travel Patterns
Weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often experience shorter flight durations due to lower passenger volume compared to weekends. Business travel typically dominates weekday flights, contributing to more predictable departure and arrival times. Reduced congestion at both CLT and LAX during weekdays can also lead to shorter taxi times and fewer delays.
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Weekend Travel Surge
Weekends, especially Fridays and Sundays, typically witness a surge in leisure travel, leading to increased passenger volume and potential congestion. Higher demand for flights during these periods can result in longer flight durations due to increased taxi times, potential holding patterns, and greater competition for gate availability. Travelers should anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly when flying on weekends.
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Impact on Connecting Flights
Day-of-week variations also impact connecting flight options. Weekend congestion can increase the risk of missed connections due to delays. Weekday travel, with its lower passenger volume, can offer smoother connections, although fewer flight options might be available depending on the connecting airport.
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Pricing Fluctuations
Airfares often fluctuate based on the day of the week, reflecting demand variations. Weekend flights typically command higher prices due to increased leisure travel demand. Weekday travel, particularly during the middle of the week, might offer lower fares, presenting cost-saving opportunities for flexible travelers.
Analyzing day-of-week trends provides valuable insights for optimizing CLT to LAX travel plans. Selecting less congested travel days, anticipating potential delays, and understanding pricing fluctuations empower travelers to make informed decisions, minimize travel time, and manage expectations effectively. Strategic selection of travel days based on these patterns contributes to a smoother and more predictable journey.
9. Real-time Tracking Tools
Real-time tracking tools offer crucial insights into the dynamic nature of flight times between Charlotte (CLT) and Los Angeles (LAX). These tools provide up-to-the-minute information, empowering travelers to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and optimize travel plans. Leveraging these resources enhances situational awareness and facilitates proactive decision-making throughout the journey.
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Predictive Flight Tracking
Predictive capabilities analyze historical data, weather patterns, and current air traffic conditions to forecast potential delays. This allows travelers to anticipate disruptions and adjust plans accordingly, minimizing the impact on connecting flights, ground transportation, and scheduled activities. For instance, a predicted delay due to weather at CLT can prompt proactive communication with ground transportation providers in Los Angeles.
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In-flight Progress Monitoring
Real-time tracking during flight provides continuous updates on current position, speed, and estimated arrival time. This granular level of information reduces uncertainty and allows travelers to manage expectations effectively during the journey. Knowing the precise location and estimated arrival time can facilitate coordination with ground transportation services upon arrival at LAX.
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Gate Change Notifications
Real-time alerts notify travelers of gate changes, a common occurrence in busy airports like CLT and LAX. This minimizes the risk of missed departures due to last-minute gate adjustments, particularly crucial for travelers with tight connecting flight schedules. Prompt gate change notifications facilitate efficient navigation within the airport and reduce stress associated with unexpected changes.
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Integration with Travel Management Platforms
Many real-time tracking tools integrate seamlessly with travel management platforms, allowing travelers to consolidate flight information, hotel reservations, and ground transportation details within a single interface. This centralized access streamlines travel logistics and provides a comprehensive overview of the entire journey, from departure from CLT to arrival and subsequent activities in Los Angeles.
By providing dynamic, up-to-the-minute information, real-time tracking tools enhance the predictability and manageability of CLT to LAX travel. These resources empower travelers to adapt to changing circumstances, minimize disruptions, and optimize their travel experience by providing actionable insights throughout the journey. Integrating these tools into travel planning contributes to a more informed, efficient, and less stressful travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding travel between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Question 1: What is the typical nonstop flight duration between CLT and LAX?
Nonstop flights generally range from 4 hours and 50 minutes to 5 hours and 30 minutes. Actual flight times can vary due to factors such as air traffic control and weather conditions.
Question 2: How does the time difference between CLT and LAX affect travel planning?
CLT operates on Eastern Time, while LAX observes Pacific Time, resulting in a three-hour difference. Westbound travelers effectively lose three hours, necessitating careful scheduling of activities upon arrival.
Question 3: What are the advantages and disadvantages of connecting flights?
Connecting flights often offer lower fares but introduce the risk of missed connections due to delays and increase overall travel time due to layovers. Careful consideration of layover durations and connecting airport efficiency is crucial.
Question 4: How do seasonal variations impact CLT to LAX flight times?
Peak travel seasons, such as holidays and summer months, experience increased demand and potential delays due to higher air traffic volume. Off-peak seasons offer potentially shorter flight times but may have fewer flight options.
Question 5: What strategies can mitigate the impact of potential flight delays?
Monitoring weather forecasts, utilizing real-time flight tracking applications, and building buffer time into itineraries can minimize disruptions caused by potential delays. Understanding airline delay policies is also advisable.
Question 6: How can real-time tracking tools enhance the travel experience?
Real-time tracking tools offer up-to-the-minute information regarding flight status, gate changes, and potential delays, empowering travelers to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances. Predictive capabilities and integration with travel management platforms further enhance travel efficiency.
Understanding these key aspects of CLT to LAX travel empowers informed decision-making and contributes to a smoother, more efficient travel experience. Careful consideration of flight duration, time zone differences, and potential delays allows travelers to optimize their itineraries and manage expectations effectively.
For further information and specific travel planning resources, consult dedicated travel websites and airline platforms.
Optimizing Charlotte to Los Angeles Flight Experiences
Strategic planning and informed decision-making are essential for optimizing travel between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The following tips provide practical guidance for navigating key aspects of this journey.
Tip 1: Leverage Nonstop Flights When Feasible: Nonstop options minimize overall travel time and reduce the risk of delays associated with connecting flights. While potentially incurring higher fares, the time saved and reduced complexity often justify the premium for time-sensitive travel.
Tip 2: Strategically Select Connecting Airports: When connecting flights are unavoidable, careful selection of the connecting airport is crucial. Consider factors such as airport size, layover duration, and the efficiency of passenger transfer processes. Larger hub airports may offer more frequent connections but can introduce greater complexity and potential for delays.
Tip 3: Analyze Airline Schedules Thoroughly: Comprehensive analysis of airline schedules allows for optimal selection of departure and arrival times. Consider the impact of the three-hour time difference between CLT and LAX when scheduling activities and appointments upon arrival in Los Angeles.
Tip 4: Account for Seasonal Demand Fluctuations: Peak travel seasons typically experience higher air traffic volume, potentially leading to delays and increased fares. Traveling during off-peak seasons can offer shorter flight times and greater schedule flexibility.
Tip 5: Monitor Weather Forecasts and Flight Status: Weather-related delays are common in air travel. Staying informed about weather conditions and monitoring flight status updates allows for proactive adjustments to travel plans and minimizes potential disruptions.
Tip 6: Utilize Real-time Tracking Tools: Real-time flight tracking applications provide valuable insights into potential delays, gate changes, and in-flight progress. These tools empower informed decision-making and enhance situational awareness throughout the journey.
Tip 7: Consider Day-of-Week Travel Patterns: Weekday travel often experiences lower passenger volume and shorter flight times compared to weekends. Flexibility in travel dates can lead to smoother travel experiences and potentially lower fares.
By implementing these strategies, travelers can significantly enhance their Charlotte to Los Angeles flight experiences. Proactive planning, informed decision-making, and effective utilization of available resources contribute to more efficient, predictable, and enjoyable travel.
This collection of tips provides a foundation for informed travel planning. Subsequent sections will delve into specific aspects of CLT to LAX travel in greater detail.
Conclusion
This exploration has provided a comprehensive overview of factors influencing travel duration between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Key aspects examined include nonstop flight durations, connecting flight considerations, the impact of layovers, airline scheduling practices, potential delays, the three-hour time difference, seasonal variations, day-of-week travel patterns, and the benefits of real-time tracking tools. Understanding these elements is crucial for effective travel planning and management.
Effective management of travel time between these two major hubs requires a proactive and informed approach. Strategic planning, leveraging available resources, and adapting to dynamic circumstances contribute significantly to a smoother, more efficient, and predictable travel experience. Further research and utilization of available tools empower travelers to optimize their journeys and minimize potential disruptions. The insights presented here serve as a foundation for informed decision-making and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities and nuances of CLT to LAX flight times.
