Terminal Changes at LAX: American, JetBlue, and Spirit Prepare for 2028 Olympics

LOS ANGELES- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is gearing up for a significant upgrade as part of its preparations for the 2028 Olympics. Terminal 5, which is currently utilized by American Airlines (AA), JetBlue (B6), and Spirit Airlines (NK), will undergo a complete demolition and reconstruction to focus on enhancing the passenger experience.

The $1.4 billion project will see all three airlines move to different terminals at the airport, with the relocation process starting in late October. This marks a crucial step in LAX’s journey toward modernization, aimed at improving passenger efficiency and experience.

American, JetBlue, and Spirit Shift Terminals

JetBlue (B6) will be the first to move, shifting its 20 daily departures from Terminal 5 to Terminal 1, where they will share space with Southwest Airlines.

Spirit Airlines (NK) will subsequently relocate its check-in operations to Terminal 2 while running flights from the new Midfield Satellite Concourse South (MSC South). Passengers will access the MSC via shuttle buses from Terminal 2.

American Airlines (AA), which is LAX’s second-largest carrier, will consolidate its services in Terminal 4 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal starting October 28.

These terminal relocations are necessary to prepare for the demolition and rebuilding of Terminal 5.

This endeavor is part of a larger initiative by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) to modernize facilities and improve passenger flow, especially in anticipation of increased traffic during the 2028 Olympics.

LAX Terminal 5 Rebuilds

The future Terminal 5 will feature a modern design inspired by mid-century architecture, complete with glass walls, multilevel concourses, and an open-air terrace that offers stunning views of planes and the Los Angeles skyline.

LAWA officials label the project as transformative, intending to create a striking impression for travelers and airline staff.

The new terminal will provide enhanced amenities, better gate configurations, and convenient connections to Terminals 4 and 6.

Aviation expert Brett Snyder pointed out that the previous layout from 1988 was outdated, making it an inefficient setting for passengers. The upgraded facility promises to provide greater comfort and convenience for both domestic and international travelers.

American Airlines’ Advantage

American Airlines stands to gain significantly from the Terminal 5 redesign. After the completion of the project, the airline will have preferential access to 10 out of the 15 gates in the new concourse, effectively doubling its previous capacity.

This expansion will enhance operations and decrease reliance on remote gates, such as the “Eagle’s Nest,” used for regional flights.

This improved gate access and terminal connectivity will make journeys easier and faster for passengers.

Nonetheless, the timeline for the project is ambitious, with the completion targeted for May 2028, just before the Olympics’ opening ceremony on July 14, 2028.

Preparing LAX for the Olympics 2028

The Terminal 5 rebuild is part of a wider infrastructure enhancement, which includes a new automated people mover connecting all terminals to the Metro system and a consolidated rental car facility, set to open by mid-2026.

LAWA is also undertaking renovations on Terminal 4 and making upgrades to other terminals in anticipation of global visitors arriving for the Olympics.

LAWA CEO John Ackerman acknowledged the ambitious pace of the project, but indicated that traffic levels at the airport will allow for maintaining service quality throughout the construction period.

This redevelopment is set to mark a defining moment in LAX’s transformation into a world-class airport, whether the new terminal is fully completed or partially operational by 2028.