The Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners approved Delta Air Lines’ request to relocate its operations from Terminals 5 and 6 to Terminals 2 and 3 at Los Angeles International Airport. The relocation is scheduled to occur between January 2017 and December 2018 and carries a guaranteed minimum investment of $350 million. In addition, Delta has outlined options for further upgrades that could total $650 million or $1.51 billion to modernize and expand Terminals 2 and 3 over time.
Mayor Eric Garcetti emphasized the significance of the deal, calling LAX “America’s gateway to the world” and noting the airport’s role in driving economic activity across the city. He described the agreement as a major step toward transforming LAX into the world-class airport that residents and visitors expect, with billions of dollars in planned investment supporting that goal.
Delta’s planned improvements will upgrade passenger waiting areas, employee support spaces, club lounges and baggage-handling systems. Subsequent phases of the project may include new ticketing areas, expanded security checkpoints, modernized baggage-claim facilities and enhanced connections between Terminals 2 and 3 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal. These changes are intended to improve both operational efficiency and the passenger experience at the airport.
Ed Bastian, Delta’s CEO, called the move a significant milestone for the airline in Los Angeles and highlighted the collaboration between public and private partners. He said the project demonstrates Delta’s commitment to becoming the preferred carrier for travelers in the Los Angeles area and underlines the airline’s dedication to continuously improving service at its LAX hub.