LAX, Alaska Airlines agree to $271-million terminal revamp

The effort to modernize Los Angeles International Airport advanced Monday when city officials and Alaska Airlines announced a $271-million renovation of Terminal 6 that will include spacious boarding areas, a new passenger lounge and more efficient baggage check-in. The project is part of a court settlement in a lawsuit brought by Alaska Airlines, which had disputed terminal-related fees imposed by Los Angeles World Airports, the operator of LAX. 

Alaska Airlines also agreed to a new 10-year lease for the terminal. “This is another milestone as we modernize LAX to improve service, safety and efficiency for the traveling public,” said L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. “It’s also a boon to the local economy, as nearly 700 jobs, as well as numerous construction-related material purchases, are created by this project.” Alaska Airlines has agreed to provide $18.6 million for the renovation, while Los Angeles World Airports will put up $156.5 million in financing and $95.9 million in cash, passenger facility fees and reimbursements from the federal Transportation Security Administration. 

 The plan includes a modern ticketing lobby, customer-friendly kiosks for check-in and a new baggage inspection system that will eliminate the need for passengers to stand in line while federal security officers screen their luggage. Along with a new passnger lounge, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility at Terminal 6 will be modernized to accommodate Alaska Airlines' international passengers, who currently are processed at other terminals. Before the renovation can proceed, the new lease with Alaska Airlines must be approved by the L.A. City Council.