Terminal 1 extension opens at LAX

The completed project is set to increase connectivity around the airport, whilst improving customer experience with modernised facilities 

Los Angeles International Airport’s (LAX) new Terminal 1 extension was opened by the city’s mayor, Eric Garcetti, on Friday (June 4).  

This marks the second new addition to the hub’s infrastructure, following the opening of Tom Bradley International Terminal’s west gates on May 24.  

LAX
Photo LAX

New features of the facility – which was known as Terminal 1.5 throughout construction – includes passenger check-in lobbies, security screening, baggage claims and a future connection to the automated people mover train system. Lifts and escalators are to set to provide passengers access to a pedestrian bridge that will connect to the new station.  

Additionally, the terminal also consists of modernised baggage carousels, extra ticket counters and a six-lane Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint.  

“LAX is in the midst of a once-in-a-generation transformation that will help redefine 21st century travel, restart our economy, and reshape how Los Angeles greets the world," said Mayor Garcetti. "When it comes to investments and innovation, our airport is in a league of its own — and with the introduction of Terminal 1.5, LAX is completing another leg in its journey toward a stronger future." 

Justin Erbacci, CEO of Los Angeles World Airports, added that the “Terminal 1 extension is a major step toward a fully transformed and fully connected LAX”.  

Southwest Airlines signed a ground lease with LAWA in 2017 for the land located between Terminal 1 and 2. The company oversaw the construction of the site and plan to acquire the improvements from the carrier.  

“As the largest airline in California carrying more travellers to, from, and within the state going on two decades, this world-class facility opens the door for continued growth and access to our growing network — especially to Hawaii,” explained Gary Kelly, chairman and CEO of Southwest Airlines.  

"I applaud the city of Los Angeles for their vision to invest in critical infrastructure and being good partners to bring this world-class facility to life." 

Upon its completion planned for autumn, the extension will connect Terminal 1 and 2 behind security, allowing customers to move between the two areas without the need to be re-screened.  

As well as gaining a third baggage carousel and three other ticket counters, Southwest Airline’s crew base is also housed at the new facility.  

Construction began in 2018, with a total of 2,955 employees working on the project.