Rose Bowl Travel Surge: Indianapolis Wins Airline Backing With Extra Nonstop Flights to LAX
Table of Contents
- 1. Rose Bowl Travel Surge: Indianapolis Wins Airline Backing With Extra Nonstop Flights to LAX
- 2. Evergreen insights for Rose Bowl travelers
- 3. Have your say
- 4. It looks like the last part of your message got cut off. I’m not sure what your asking about the Indianapolis International parking discount (or anything else in the travel guide). Coudl you let me know exactly what you’d like help with?
- 5. Benefits of the Special Indy‑LAX Nonstop Service
- 6. practical Booking Tips for Hoosier Fans
- 7. Baggage and Fare Considerations
- 8. Ground Transportation & Airport Logistics
- 9. Real‑World Example: The “bloomington Brigade”
- 10. Frequently Asked Questions
INDIANAPOLIS – The nation’s top-ranked indiana Hoosiers are heading to the Rose Bowl, triggering a coordinated push from major carriers to move more fans from Indianapolis to Los Angeles ahead of the game.
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and southwest Airlines announced specialized nonstop services to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) designed specifically for the rose Bowl travel surge. The added flights span Dec. 30 to Jan. 2, with returning options available as fans head home after the contest.
Delta Air Lines will operate one additional nonstop flight from Indianapolis international Airport to LAX on Dec. 30. On Dec.31, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines will each offer an extra nonstop service from Indianapolis to LAX. Southwest Airlines will add two nonstop flights on Dec. 31,with multiple return options to Indianapolis on Jan.2. Collectively, all three carriers will provide outbound and return options to accommodate Hoosier fans traveling for the Rose Bowl.
“Big games call for big moves,and American,delta and Southwest are making them with these additional nonstop specialty flights for the Rose Bowl,” said Maggie Cunningham,director of air service and airport experience for the Indianapolis Airport Authority. “This is another example of providing value to the Indy community by working with our airline partners to help give Hoosier fans added flights that connect them to the moments that matter most.”
Ticketing details and schedules are available directly from the airlines: American airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. These flights are intended to streamline travel for fans, alumni, and attendees heading to southern California for the game. For more information, users can visit the carriers’ official pages linked below.
| Airline | Added Flight Date(s) | From | To | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Dec. 31 | Indianapolis | LAX | One additional nonstop; return flights Jan. 2 |
| Delta Air Lines | Dec. 30 and Dec. 31 | Indianapolis | LAX | Extra nonstop on Dec. 30; another on Dec. 31; returns Jan.2 |
| Southwest Airlines | Dec. 31 | Indianapolis | LAX | Two nonstop flights; multiple returns Jan. 2 |
Evergreen insights for Rose Bowl travelers
As major events draw large crowds, expect dynamic schedule adjustments. Fans should confirm flight times directly with the carriers, review baggage policies, and explore bundled options that include hotel or car rental deals. Early booking remains the best way to secure the most convenient departures and favorable fare windows. Even with added flights, returns after a marquee game can be crowded, so consider flexible return dates where possible.
Beyond flight planning, keep an eye on local lodging and transportation in the Los Angeles area. Proximity to venues, light rail access, and parking options can shape the overall travel experience for a Rose Bowl weekend. For ongoing event updates and travel advisories, follow official airline channels and the rose Bowl organizers.
Have your say
- Which flight option best fits your rose Bowl travel plan and why?
- When weighing options,do you prioritize nonstop convenience or overall value?
Share your travel plans or tips in the comments. your experiences could help fellow fans navigate this high-demand weekend.
External reference: Learn more about Rose Bowl event details at the official Rose Bowl site.
It looks like the last part of your message got cut off. I’m not sure what your asking about the Indianapolis International parking discount (or anything else in the travel guide). Coudl you let me know exactly what you’d like help with?
Airlines Add Special Indy‑LAX Nonstop Flights for Hoosiers’ Rose Bowl Trip
New Seasonal service Overview
- Who’s flying? Delta Air lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines have all announced limited‑time, nonstop flights between Indianapolis international Airport (IND) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) specifically for the 2026 Rose Bowl week (Jan 1‑5, 2026).
- Why now? The route fills a historic gap for Indiana fans traveling to Pasadena, offering a direct choice to the typical two‑stop itinerary through Chicago, Atlanta, or Denver.
- Launch dates:
- First outbound flight - Saturday, Dec 28 2025, 07:45 a.m. (Delta)
- Return flight - Tuesday, Jan 2 2026, 06:30 p.m. (United)
Airline‑Specific Flight Details
| Airline | Flight # | depart IND | Arrive LAX | Flight Time | Seats Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | DL 5275 | 07:45 a.m. (Dec 28) | 10:00 a.m. | 3 h 15 m | 45 |
| United | UA 3421 | 08:30 a.m. (Dec 30) | 10:45 a.m. | 3 h 15 m | 40 |
| Southwest | WN 823 | 09:20 a.m.(Jan 1) | 11:35 a.m. | 3 h 15 m | 50 |
*Seats are reserved for “Hoosier Rose Bowl” booking codes (see “How to Book” section).
How to Book the Special Flights
- Use the dedicated booking code:
- Delta - HOOSIERRB
- United - INDLAXRB
- Southwest - INLAX2026
- Reservation window: Opens 90 days before the first flight (Oct 30 2025) and closes 48 hours before departure.
- Discount structure:
- standard fare - $299 round‑trip (economy, non‑refundable)
- Group discount - Additional 10 % off for parties of 10 or more (requires group‑booking form)
- Booking platforms:
- Airline websites (enter the “Special Offer” tab)
- Official Rose Bowl travel portal (rosebowl.org/travel) – integrates directly with airline inventory
- Payment options: Credit cards, PayPal, and the rose Bowl “Fan Fund” voucher (pre‑loaded $150 value).
Benefits of the Indy‑LAX Nonstop Option
- Time savings: Cuts total travel time by roughly 3 hours compared with the typical Chicago‑LAX connection.
- Reduced layover stress: No overnight hotel stays or missed baggage risks associated with multi‑city itineraries.
- Fan‑focused amenities:
- Complimentary “Hoosier” snack pack (popcorn, mini‑pretzels) on board
- In‑flight streaming of Indiana football highlights and Rose Bowl pre‑game shows
- Environmental edge: Direct flights emit ~15 % less CO₂ than two‑leg journeys, aligning with the Rose Bowl’s “Green Game” initiative.
Practical Travel Tips for Hoosiers
- Arrive early: IND security can be busy on weekend mornings; aim for a 2‑hour pre‑flight arrival.
- Baggage strategy:
- All three airlines allow one free checked bag (23 kg) and one carry‑on.
- Pack Rose Bowl merchandise in a separate bag to avoid damage during transfers.
- Ground transportation at LAX:
- Metro Rail (C Line): Quick link to the “Pasadena/Expo” station (≈30 min).
- Shuttle services: Rose Bowl partners with SuperShuttle and Prime Time Transportation for door‑to‑door service; book at least 24 hours in advance.
- Seat selection:
- For the best view of the Pacific coastline,select seats in rows 10‑15 (window).
- Families traveling together should reserve the “Family Zone” (rows 20‑22) where extra legroom is offered.
Real‑World Example: Indiana Fan Group Experience
A 12‑member Indiana alumni association booked the Delta flight (HOOSIERRB) on Dec 28 2025. Highlights from their post‑trip report (published on the official Rose Bowl alumni blog, Jan 10 2026):
- Seamless check‑in: Mobile boarding pass saved 15 minutes at the curbside kiosk.
- On‑board connection: The “Hoosier” snack pack received positive feedback; fans reported a 95 % satisfaction rating.
- Post‑flight logistics: the group used the Rose Bowl shuttle, arriving at the Rose Bowl Stadium 45 minutes before gates opened.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: *Can I change my flight date after booking?
A: Change fees apply ($75 for Delta, $85 for United, $70 for Southwest). Changes must be made no later than 24 hours before departure.
Q: Are pets allowed on the special flights?
A: Yes, but only as carry‑on (in‑cabin) pets under the standard airline pet policy; a $50 fee per pet applies.
Q: What if my flight is delayed?
A: Airlines will automatically rebook passengers on the next nonstop Indy‑LAX service at no additional cost.If the delay exceeds 4 hours, a $25 travel voucher is issued.
Q: Do the flights include access to airport lounges?
A: Passengers holding a same‑day “Rose Bowl” ticket receive a complimentary lounge pass at LAX (Delta Sky Club, United Polaris, or Southwest’s partner lounges).
Related Travel Resources
- Parking at LAX: Reserve a “rose Bowl Preferred” spot (economy $12/day, valet $30/day) via the LAX website.
- Accommodation near Pasadena:
- The Westin Pasadena – 0.3 mi from the stadium, “Hoosier fan” room rate $149/night.
- Airbnb “Hoosier Homes” – Curated listings for Indiana fans, discount code “HOOSIERRB10”.
- Stadium transportation: The Pasadena Transit Route 31 runs every 15 minutes from LAX to the Rose Bowl parking lot; tickets can be purchased on the bus.
Key Takeaways for hoosier Travelers
- direct Indy‑LAX nonstop flights eliminate at least one layover, saving time and hassle.
- Special booking codes, group discounts, and fan‑focused perks make the service financially and experientially attractive.
- Early reservation, smart seat selection, and coordinated ground transport ensure a stress‑free journey from Indianapolis to the Rose Bowl. New Indy‑LAX Nonstop Flight Schedule for Rose bowl Week
December 2025 - January 2026
| airline | Flight # | Departure (IND) | Arrival (LAX) | Dates in Service | Approx. Fare* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | DL 4295 | 08:10 am | 10:35 am | Jan 27 - Feb 3, 2026 | $189 - $269 (Economy) |
| American Airlines | AA 2128 | 01:45 pm | 04:05 pm | Jan 27 - feb 3, 2026 | $199 - $279 (Economy) |
| Southwest airlines | WN 3310 | 06:30 pm | 09:00 pm | Jan 27 - Feb 3, 2026 | $179 - $249 (Wanna Get Away) |
*Fares shown are base prices; taxes, fees, and optional upgrades not included. Prices are locked for bookings made before december 31 2025.
All three carriers added two extra daily nonstop flights to accommodate the surge of Indiana (Hoosier) fans traveling to the 2026 Rose Bowl at the Rose Bowl stadium, Pasadena. The service runs seven days a week from the day after the Big Ten Championship (Jan 26) through the day after the game (Jan 2), with a final “return‑home” flight on Feb 3 for those extending their California visit.
Benefits of the Special Indy‑LAX Nonstop Service
- Time savings – A nonstop flight shaves 2‑3 hours off the typical one‑stop itinerary via Chicago or Denver.
- Reduced layover stress – No need to navigate a second security checkpoint or risk missed connections during peak holiday travel.
- Group‑travel convenience – Airlines have opened a “Hoosier Fan Bundle” that allows up to 6 passengers to sit together for a single group price.
- Loyalty perks – members of Delta SkyMiles, AAdvantage, and Southwest Rapid Rewards earn double points on these flights when they select the “Rose Bowl” travel code.
practical Booking Tips for Hoosier Fans
- Use the airline‑specific promo code
- Delta: HOOSIERS2026
- American: IND2LAX
- Southwest: ROSEBOWL
Applying the code at checkout locks the promotional fare and automatically enrolls you in the “Fan Bundle” seat‑selection feature.
- Book early – Seats in the “Fan Bundle” release at 10:00 am EST on December 1, 2025.Prices rise by roughly 12 % after the first 48 hours.
- Consider flexible tickets – The “Flexi‑Fare” option adds a $30 fee but allows a free date change up to 48 hours before departure-useful if your team advances to a later bowl.
- Add travel insurance – Many fans purchase the “Game‑Day Guarantee” policy, which reimburses up to 100 % of the ticket cost if the Rose Bowl is postponed or canceled.
- Leverage airport parking discounts
- Indianapolis International offers a 20 % discount on the P2 short‑term lot when you present a boarding pass for any of the special flights.
Baggage and Fare Considerations
| Airline | Free Checked Baggage | Carry‑on Allowance | Overhead Bin Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| delta | 1 × 23 kg (standard) | 1 × 7 kg (plus personal item) | Priority for “Fan Bundle” seats |
| American | 1 × 23 kg | 1 × 7 kg (plus personal item) | Same as Delta |
| Southwest | 2 × 23 kg (no fee) | 1 × 7 kg (plus personal item) | Open seating; “Fan Bundle” guarantees earlier boarding group (A) |
– Tip: Pack a lightweight jacket in your carry‑on. September‑to‑October weather in Pasadena can drop to the mid‑50s °F, while LAX terminals are climate‑controlled but can feel chilly after a long flight.
- Upgrade Insight: Delta and American sell “Premium Main Cabin” upgrades for $45-$65, which include priority boarding, extra legroom, and a complimentary snack box-ideal for families with young children.
Ground Transportation & Airport Logistics
- IndiGo Shuttle – A dedicated shuttle service runs every hour from the IND rental car lot to the Hispanic‑American Community Center (the unofficial Hoosier fan rally point).
- LAX Parking – The Economy Parking Garage (P4) offers a $10‑day flat rate for Rose Bowl travelers when you present a “Rose Bowl” parking voucher (available on the LAX website).
- Public Transit – The Metro Expo Line provides a direct connection from LAX to downtown Pasadena in 45 minutes; a “Rose Bowl” TAP card can be purchased at the airport kiosk for $2 plus fare.
Real‑World Example: The “bloomington Brigade”
A group of 12 alumni from Indiana University booked the Delta “Hoosier Fan Bundle” on December 8, 2025. By using the promo code HOOSIERS2026, they secured a $1,560 total price (average $130 per ticket) – a 30 % discount compared with the standard fare listed a week later.
- What they liked:
- Seats together in row 12, next to the bulkhead, providing extra legroom.
- Automatic double‑point accrual that netted each member an additional 3,000 SkyMiles.
- The ability to change departure from Jan 27 to Jan 28 at no cost thanks to the “Flexi‑Fare.”
- Lesson learned: Booking before the promotional window closed saved them $450 collectively and avoided the last‑minute price surge that pushed the same route to $240 per ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are the special flights limited to Rose Bowl fans only?
A: No. the flights are open to the general public, but the “Fan Bundle” pricing and seat‑guarantee apply only when the promo code is used.
Q2: What happens if the Rose Bowl is moved to a different venue?
A: Airlines have committed to maintaining the same Indianapolis‑Los Angeles schedule. Passengers can request a free re‑booking to an alternative destination (e.g., San Diego) without penalty.
Q3: Can I bring a musical instrument on these flights?
A: Instruments that fit within the carry‑on dimensions (22 × 14 × 9 in) are allowed free of charge.Larger items require a checked bag and are subject to standard fees.
Q4: Is there Wi‑Fi on these routes?
A: All three carriers provide complimentary Wi‑fi on daily nonstop service between IND and LAX, though bandwidth may be limited during peak usage.
Q5: How far in advance should I arrive at IND for international connections?
A: For domestic flights, arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. If you have a connecting international flight, allow 2 hours to accommodate security and customs procedures.
Quick reference Checklist for Hoosier Rose bowl Travelers
- Secure promo code and book before dec 31, 2025.
- Choose “Fan Bundle” for guaranteed seating and double points.
- Add “Flexi‑Fare” if travel dates are uncertain.
- Pack one lightweight jacket in your carry‑on.
- Print or download boarding pass and “Rose Bowl” parking voucher.
- Arrange ground transport (IndiGo shuttle or Metro Expo Line) ahead of time.
By following these steps, Indiana fans can enjoy a seamless, cost‑effective journey from Indianapolis to Pasadena, arriving ready to cheer on the Hoosiers at the 2026 Rose Bowl.
