We fly out of LAX all the time. I really don't know what you are talking about. It's going through a major transformation now and will be completed by 2023 including the new terminal. The only third world terminal I'm aware of is Terminal One which is Southwest (fitting for a sh!th0le airline). Terminal 2 was completely renovated and is gorgeous. Virgin Atlantic fly's out of this terminal. Bradley international was the first to go through the transformation and is now world class. The airline lounges are incredible. Terminal 6 updates have been completed are are nice.
Respectfully disagree. We were in whatever terminal house gates 30-39. All gate seats full and folks standing everywhere. Only a few packed eateries. Mostly just kiosks. Long lines tor the ladies - slightly better (but still a wait) for men. Had to take a bus (with significant wait times) to the terminal where we could use a lounge. So, if I missed "the good parts," I'll choose to refrain from any future opportunity. As I said in my OP, CA has numerous fine airports and we do have choices. For the LA area, it's John Wayne. I just forgot I knew that.