LAX to tear down, then reconstruct Terminal 5 ahead of 2028 Olympics

Terminal 5 at Los Angeles International Airport will be officially shuttered on Tuesday in preparation for demolition as part of a project aimed at revitalizing the facility ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Last week, Los Angeles World Airports announced its plans, noting three airlines will move out of Terminal 5. JetBlue was the first to leave and relocate to Terminal 1, followed by Spirit Airlines to Terminal 2 and American Airlines is set to make Terminal 4 its temporary home.

After American Airlines shifts its operations to Terminal 4 on Tuesday, Terminal 5 will be completely closed to begin demolition efforts.

According to the LAX site, the terminal went through a recently completed $229 million modernization added 19 dining and shopping options, an expanded ticketing lobby, additional security screening checkpoints, and new baggage carousels.

Los Angeles World Airports oversees LAX and the Van Nuys Airport.

"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," Doug Webster, Chief Airport Operations and Maintenance Officer for Los Angeles World Airports, said in a statement. "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."

Coinciding with JetBlue's move to Terminal 1 last week, LAX opened the recently completed Midfield Satellite Concourse South, an extension of the West Gates at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. The project added more than 150,000 square feet and eight gates to the terminal.

The project is one of several others included in LAWA's $30 billion Capitol Improvement Program, which aims to complete several enhancements to LAX, such as improved roadways, the Automated People Mover and a consolidated Rent-A-Car facility, among others.

City and airport officials are preparing LAX, in part, for the 2026 World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games -- when thousands upon thousands of people are expected to descend into the city and region.

Earlier this year, LAWA also previewed a new campaign and branding that will take over LAX.

Airport officials announced that over the next three years, LAWA will oversee and implement upgrades to the site with architecture and design focused on L.A.-themed terminals that pay homage to culture, history, seasons, sports and more; refine retail and dining offerings and amenities; and branding that distinguishes LAX from other airports and destinations.

These design elements are expected to guide all major investments at the airport, such as terminal upgrades, wayfinding and arrival experiences.

Additional reporting by City News Service.