California Construction News staff writer
Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) announced plans to close Terminal 5 later this month for full demolition as part of a $1.6 billion modernization of Terminals 4 and 5, ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“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,” said Doug Webster, chief airport operations and maintenance officer at LAWA. “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.”
The Terminal 4 and 5 modernization, being built by Hensel Phelps with design partners PGAL (Terminal 4) and Gensler (Terminal 4.5 Vertical Core), is scheduled for completion in 2027. The project will deliver a centralized location for ticketing, screening and baggage claim, enhanced passenger amenities, and direct access to the Automated People Mover (APM) train system.
A key component of the project is the Terminal Vertical Core, which will provide new escalators, elevators, and a pedestrian bridge connecting to the APM’s West Central Terminal Area station. The Vertical Core will feature a new headhouse for passenger processing, consolidated security screening with 16 automated lanes, and new baggage claim areas, as well as office and support space for airlines, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and law enforcement agencies.
A new south concourse will be built inside Terminal 4, offering expanded hold rooms, concessions, restrooms and a bus gate for both domestic and international flights. Two gates will be reconstructed to support U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations, and upgrades to the north concourse will improve passenger flow.
Additional infrastructure improvements include new power systems, transformers, backup power, and a redesigned aircraft apron and fueling system. When complete, the combined 300,000-square-foot, 30-gate complex will feature modern finishes, intuitive wayfinding, natural lighting, upgraded retail and dining options, and energy-efficient systems. The project is targeting LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.
The closure of Terminal 5 coincides with the opening of the new Midfield Satellite Concourse South (MSC South), a 150,000-square-foot addition with eight gates that will help maintain flight operations during construction.
The modernization is part of LAWA’s $30 billion Capital Improvement Program, which includes terminal upgrades, improved wayfinding and connectivity, and major infrastructure investments designed to modernize LAX before the 2028 Games.
For construction updates, visit flylax.com or follow @flyLAXairport on social media.
