Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is set to embark on an ambitious terminal renovation as it gears up for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This project marks the conclusion of a series of transformative initiatives aimed at enhancing the airport’s infrastructure and passenger experience.
Terminal 5, which opened in its current design in 1988 and was famously dubbed “Delta’s Oasis,” is on the verge of demolition to make way for a modern, state-of-the-art concourse that meets the evolving expectations of today’s travelers.
“This project signifies a major milestone for LAX and our commitment to the guest experience,” noted Hans Thilenius, the deputy executive director of terminal development and improvement at Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA). He emphasized the project’s transformative nature, aiming for a design that captures a sense of wonder for both travelers and employees.
To facilitate this ambitious redesign, key tenants operating from Terminal 5 will need to relocate. The reorganization begins on October 21, with JetBlue moving its daily departures to Terminal 1, which currently only serves Southwest Airlines.
Next in line is Spirit Airlines, set to shift its check-in operations to Terminal 2 on October 22. Spirit’s average of 15 daily flights will operate from the new Midfield Satellite Concourse South (MSC South), located west of the Tom Bradley International Terminal. This area will streamline operations with shuttle buses transporting passengers from Terminal 2 to the new concourse.
Consolidating its operations, American Airlines—LAX’s second-largest airline—will move its flights to Terminal 4 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal starting October 28. This step is part of a $1.4 billion investment in Terminal 5, which is part of broader efforts to prepare LAX for the influx of travelers expected during the Olympics.
Transformative Vision for Terminal 5
The redevelopment of Terminal 5 aims to redefine the airport experience by creating an inviting environment. Plans depict a stunning, multilevel concourse accentuated by extensive glass walls that deliver a midcentury modern aesthetic. An outdoor patio is also part of the design, making it a unique space for travelers to relax.
“Our goal is to create a beautiful, functional space,” shared Courtney Moore, the deputy executive director of strategy, innovation, and experience at LAWA. She highlighted the addition of a public terrace equipped with telescopes for enthusiasts wanting to engage in plane spotting while taking in views of the surrounding natural landscape.
According to Southern California resident and aviation specialist Brett Snyder, the Terminal 5 rebuild is long overdue. He noted that the original design, completed in 1988, featured inefficient layouts with limited waiting areas for passengers, making travel through the terminal cumbersome. The redesigned terminal, as described by Snyder, promises improved functionality and simplified transfer options between adjacent terminals 4 and 6.
Potential Gains for American Airlines
American Airlines appears poised to gain the most from the Terminal 5 redevelopment. Initial plans indicate that the airline will have priority access to 10 of the new concourse’s 15 gates upon its anticipated opening in May 2028. This reflects a significant increase from the current five gates the airline utilizes in Terminal 5.
However, American is also expected to relinquish its so-called “Eagle’s Nest,” a remote terminal for regional operations, once the new concourse is completed. While this may seem like a setback, the overall changes suggest a more streamlined airport experience for American travelers by reducing the need for remote bus transfers.
The tight timeline for the Terminal 5 project raises questions about its readiness by the time the Olympics commence. As of now, the construction plan includes three months for demolition followed by a two-year building period. LAWA is working diligently to ensure that at least a portion of the rebuilt terminal is functional in time for the much-anticipated opening ceremonies scheduled for July 14, 2028.
“Given the current downturn in airport traffic, we can prioritize quality over sheer capacity for the Olympics,” replied LAWA CEO John Ackerman, when questioned about the timeline’s feasibility. His team aims to present a welcoming atmosphere for Olympic visitors, whether that is a partially completed Terminal 5 or a fully outfitted concourse.
Ultimately, LAX’s transformation with the Terminal 5 project symbolizes a forward-thinking approach to air travel and infrastructure development in Southern California, paving the way for a brighter future for travelers and industry employees alike.
