The Latest on Los Angeles Travel — From Airline Waivers, to Rideshares Discounts, and More

Several major fires continue to rage in Los Angeles on Friday, destroying homes and businesses and forcing major attractions to close.

The two largest fires — the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire — together combined to destroy more than 9,000 homes, businesses, and other structures, the Los Angeles Times reported. As of Friday morning, the Palisades Fire had burned more than 19,000 acres and was only 6 percent contained, while the Eaton Fire had burned more than 13,000 acres and had 0 percent containment.

While area airport operations are largely unaffected by the flames, several major airlines extended their flight waivers through Jan. 11, including United Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue. Delta Air Lines issued a waiver through Jan. 12.

Several other travel-related companies have stepped up to help travelers and residents in the Los Angeles area, like Uber, which is providing ride credits of up to $40 to designated shelters through Jan. 15. To redeem the ride discounts, evacuees must apply the promo code “WILDFIRE25” in the wallet section of the Uber app before requesting a ride.

“We’re teaming up with local authorities and emergency teams to make sure everyone who needs help evacuating gets a ride,” Camiel Irving, Uber’s vice president of operations, said in a statement. “We’re staying closely connected with state officials and ready to do everything we can to support those impacted by the fires.”

Similarly, Lyft is providing up to $25 in ride credits with the promo code “CAFIRERELIEF25.” The code is valid for up to 2,000 riders through Jan. 15.

Hotels across the city are offering free or discounted rates to those who have been displaced, and Airbnb is providing free, temporary housing.

Major attractions across Los Angeles remained shuttered on Friday, including the Griffith Observatory and the Getty Center and Villa. However, Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk planned to re-open on Friday with regular operating hours.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to those impacted by the recent and ongoing fires, as well as our deepest appreciation to the first responders for their valiant and ongoing efforts during this difficult time,” Universal wrote in a post on X.