Burbank, California – Travelers flying out of Hollywood Burbank Airport now have access to a modern replacement terminal that opened to the public on October 13 after a ribbon-cutting ceremony eight days earlier. The $1.3 billion project replaces a nearly 100-year-old facility while keeping the airport’s signature walk-out-to-the-plane experience intact. Officials described the upgrade as both timely and budget-conscious, a combination that stands out in large infrastructure projects. ([1])
A Practical Alternative to LAX Crowds
The new terminal addresses long-standing safety and seismic concerns at the old facility without expanding flight capacity. A development agreement reached after years of negotiations limits the airport to 14 gates, the same number as before. This cap helps maintain the smaller scale that many passengers prefer over the larger, often congested Los Angeles International Airport.
Comedian and longtime local resident Jay Leno attended the event and voiced support for keeping the airport’s convenient reputation somewhat under the radar. He noted that the facility serves as a straightforward option for those who value simplicity. The airport handles more than 6.2 million passengers annually across eight airlines and more than 30 nonstop destinations.
Design That Reflects Local Film Heritage
Architects from Corgan and CannonDesign drew inspiration from Hollywood glamour and Burbank’s historic role in the motion picture industry. The 355,000-square-foot building features soaring ceilings in the ticketing lobby, an open layout, and self-service kiosks that replace the cramped conditions of the previous space. Materials and finishes evoke the glitz of classic cinema while meeting current Federal Aviation Administration standards.
Passengers pass beneath a large steel-mesh and mirrored installation titled “When We Reflect” by artist Glenn Kaino after clearing the eight-lane security checkpoint. The work acknowledges the site’s World War II history as a camouflaged Lockheed plant. A separate outdoor sculpture by Cliff Garten honors Amelia Earhart, who once used the airport as a base in the 1930s.
Updated Facilities and Local Amenities
The single-building concourse layout places nine gates on one side of a central area and five on the other, with dining and retail options distributed throughout. Every seat includes a cup holder and power access, while worktables offer additional charging ports. Restrooms feature outward-opening stall doors and individual oval mirrors rather than a single long vanity.
New or expanded services include family restrooms, nursing rooms, adult changing areas, a pet relief zone, and more than a dozen dining choices alongside half a dozen retail outlets. Many of the food and shopping options highlight local brands. The baggage claim area consolidates into one central location with three modern carousels.
Operational Improvements for Airlines
Southwest Airlines, the busiest carrier at the airport, can now operate its larger Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft instead of being restricted to smaller 737-700 models. The airline flew its California-themed livery plane to the opening events. Carrier officials noted that the change supports more flights, including additional service to Honolulu, while improving fuel efficiency and reducing noise.
Brent Kelley of Corgan highlighted how the restroom design nods to Hollywood’s past glamour. Mayor Tamala Takahashi emphasized that the finished project delivers a contemporary terminal without sacrificing the community character residents wanted to retain. The upgrades position the airport to handle current demand more comfortably while honoring its aviation legacy.
