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LAX Begins Terminal 5 Overhaul Ahead of 2028 Olympics
LAX starts demolition and rebuild of Terminal 5 as part of $30B upgrade for the 2028 Olympics, relocating airlines during construction.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is embarking on one of its most ambitious projects to date: the complete demolition and reconstruction of Terminal 5. This significant undertaking is a cornerstone of a massive $30-billion capital improvement program aimed at transforming the airport into a world-class facility ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The closure, which is slated to begin on October 28, marks a pivotal moment in the airport’s ongoing evolution, promising a state-of-the-art travel experience for millions of passengers. The project underscores a broader commitment to modernizing LAX, addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges and preparing for a global spotlight.
The current Terminal 5, which opened in 1988, has been described as outdated and inefficient, with limited space for passengers. Its reconstruction is not merely a renovation but a complete teardown, paving the way for a facility designed to meet the demands of modern air travel. This move is part of the Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP), a collection of projects designed to enhance accessibility and operational efficiency across the airport. As Los Angeles prepares to host the Olympics, the pressure is on to deliver an airport that is not only functional but also leaves a lasting positive impression on international visitors. The Terminal 5 project is a critical piece of this larger puzzle, representing one of the final major infrastructure pushes before the games.
The decision to move forward with such a large-scale project involves complex logistical planning, particularly concerning the relocation of major airlines. American Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines, the primary tenants of Terminal 5, will be temporarily moved to other terminals to ensure that flight operations continue with minimal disruption. Airport officials have been working closely with these carriers to manage the transition, though travelers are advised to allow for extra time when flying during this period. The project’s timeline is ambitious, with demolition and a two-year construction phase planned to conclude just before the Olympic opening ceremonies on July 14, 2028.
The temporary closure of Terminal 5 necessitates a carefully orchestrated relocation of its airline tenants. The process began on October 21, with JetBlue moving its approximately 20 daily departures to Terminal 1, where it will share space with Southwest Airlines. The following day, Spirit Airlines relocated its check-in services to Terminal 2, with its 15 daily flights operating out of the new Midfield Satellite Concourse (MSC) South. Finally, on October 28, American Airlines, the second-largest carrier at LAX, will consolidate its operations in Terminal 4 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal.
To accommodate the displaced flights and mitigate congestion, LAX is leveraging its newest facilities. The recently opened MSC South adds over 150,000 square feet and eight new gates, providing much-needed capacity during the construction period. This new concourse is a key element in the airport’s strategy to maintain a smooth passenger flow while one of its main terminals is out of commission. Despite these measures, airport officials are urging passengers flying with the affected airlines to be proactive, check their terminal assignments before arriving at LAX, and allow for additional travel time.
The broader context of these changes is the airport’s $30-billion overhaul, which includes several other major projects running concurrently. Among these is the development of an automated people mover, intended to connect terminals with the Metro system and a new consolidated rental car facility. While these long-term improvements promise a more streamlined airport experience in the future, the immediate future for travelers at LAX will involve navigating a dynamic and evolving construction landscape. The airport’s leadership has expressed confidence that, due to a recent dip in passenger traffic, the capacity exists to handle these changes without a significant negative impact on the overall passenger experience.
“As we take this important step toward transforming LAX, the closure of Terminal 5 marks a pivotal moment in our journey to deliver a world-class airport experience. Our goal is to minimize disruption during this transition, and we are working closely with our airline partners to ensure continued operations and smooth travel for our passengers.” – Doug Webster, Chief Airport Operations and Maintenance Officer, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA)
The reconstruction of Terminal 5 is driven by a vision to create a facility that is not only modern and efficient but also provides a “wow factor” for travelers. The new terminal, estimated to cost $1.4 billion, is being designed with a midcentury modern aesthetic and is expected to feature amenities that cater to the expectations of contemporary passengers. Preliminary designs showcase a glass-walled, multilevel concourse that may include an outdoor patio, offering a unique airport experience. The project also aims to improve connectivity within the airport, with plans for two additional gates and a new pathway to seamlessly link the new Terminal 5 with Terminal 4.
This project is not an isolated effort but part of a comprehensive strategy to prepare LAX for the 2028 Olympics and beyond. The large-scale investment in infrastructure is intended to address the airport’s reputation for being difficult to navigate and to create a more welcoming gateway to Los Angeles. The ambitious timeline, which aims for completion just ahead of the Olympic Games, reflects the urgency of this goal. The project’s success will be a significant factor in how the city is perceived on the world stage during this major international event. The leadership at Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) has emphasized the transformative nature of this project. Hans Thilenius, Deputy Executive Director of Terminal Development and Improvement, has described the new terminal as a “riveting design” that will be a significant upgrade for both passengers and employees. While the construction phase will undoubtedly present challenges, the long-term vision is one of a fully modernized, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing airport that can serve the needs of a global city for decades to come.
The shutdown and reconstruction of Terminal 5 at LAX represent a bold and necessary step in the airport’s journey toward modernization. As a key component of a multi-billion dollar capital improvement program, this project is about more than just a new building; it’s about redefining the travel experience at one of the world’s busiest airports. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and improved connectivity, LAX is positioning itself to handle the influx of visitors for the 2028 Olympics and to meet the evolving demands of 21st-century air travel.
While the transition period will require patience and planning from travelers, the ultimate goal is a more efficient, enjoyable, and world-class airport. The successful completion of the new Terminal 5, along with other key modernization projects, will solidify LAX’s status as a premier international gateway. As the city prepares to welcome the world, the transformation of its airport is a clear signal of its commitment to providing a welcoming and seamless experience for all who pass through its gates.
Question: When will Terminal 5 at LAX close for renovation? Question: Which airlines are affected by the Terminal 5 closure? Question: Where will the affected airlines be relocated? Question: When is the new Terminal 5 expected to reopen?
LAX Accelerates Modernization with Terminal 5 Overhaul for 2028 Olympics
Navigating the Transition: Airline Relocations and Passenger Impact
A Vision for the Future: The New Terminal 5 and a Modernized LAX
A New Gateway for a Global City
FAQ
Answer: Terminal 5 is scheduled for a full closure on October 28.
Answer: The airlines affected are American Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines.
Answer: JetBlue will move to Terminal 1, Spirit Airlines’ check-in will be in Terminal 2 with flights from the Midfield Satellite Concourse South, and American Airlines will consolidate in Terminal 4 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal.
Answer: The new terminal is anticipated to reopen just before the start of the 2028 Olympics on July 14, 2028.
Sources
Photo Credit: Rendering – LAWA