Hollywood Burbank Airport Opens $1.3 Billion New Terminal: Logistics Guide for 2026 Travelers

Are you planning a trip to Los Angeles via Burbank? Starting October 13, 2026, the airport has transitioned all operations to a completely new $1.3 billion replacement terminal that fundamentally changes how you will enter, park, and board your flight.

The New Terminal Infrastructure

The Hollywood Burbank Airport has officially moved passenger operations to a modern replacement facility, marking a major milestone in the Elevate BUR development program. This is not a capacity expansion in terms of flights, but a total overhaul of the passenger experience and safety standards. The new structure spans 355,000 square feet and replaces a facility that had been in service since 1930.

One of the most significant changes is the terminal's physical location. To meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) separation standards, the building was moved from 250 feet away from the runway to a safer distance of 880 feet. While the airport maintains its 14 boarding gates, the internal flow has been optimized to reduce walking distances; the trek from the entrance to the furthest gate is now 1,285 feet, down from 1,600 feet in the old terminal.

Terminal Capacity and Operational Specs

Feature	Old Terminal (Pre-Oct 2026)	New Terminal (Post-Oct 2026)	Status
Total Investment	N/A	US$1.3 Billion	Completed
Square Footage	Smaller/Aging	355,000 sq ft	Operational
Security Lanes	5 Lanes	8 Lanes	Active
Boarding Gates	14 Gates	14 Gates	Unchanged
Runway Distance	250 Feet	880 Feet	Relocated
Max Walk Distance	~1,600 Feet	~1,285 Feet	Improved
Passenger Volume	6.2 Million (2025)	6.2 Million+	Stable

Traveler Logistics Guide

If you are a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor to BUR, follow these updated logistics steps to avoid confusion during the transition.

1. Parking and Vehicle Access The parking layout has changed entirely. A new parking structure is now active, offering 2,000 vehicle spaces. If you previously used Lot C or Lot E, be advised that both are permanently closed. For those driving electric vehicles, the new facility includes 310 EV charging ports. I recommend checking the Hollywood Burbank Airport official site for current valet and parking rates before arrival.

2. Security and Check-In You will notice a faster throughput at security. The increase from five to eight lanes is designed to reduce wait times during peak hours. Note that while the terminal is modern, many flights still utilize outdoor stairs for boarding rather than enclosed jet bridges.

3. Baggage and Arrivals For the first time, baggage claim is now located indoors. This eliminates the need to exit the building to retrieve luggage, providing a more streamlined transition to ground transport.

4. Ground Transport Connections If you prefer to avoid rental cars, utilize the regional rail links:

• Burbank Airport-South Station: Serves Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink.
• Burbank Airport-North Station: Provides additional regional rail access.
• Shuttle Service: Use the airport shuttles to bridge the gap between the rail stations and the new terminal.

Regional Connectivity Impact

The new terminal solidifies Burbank's role as the primary alternative to LAX for those visiting the San Fernando Valley, Glendale, and Pasadena. For travelers focusing on the entertainment industry, this facility provides the fastest access to Universal Studios Hollywood and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

While the 14-gate limit means we won't see a massive surge in new routes immediately, the improved infrastructure allows for the potential use of larger aircraft. Southwest Airlines, the dominant carrier at BUR, has indicated a desire to increase frequencies on high-demand routes, specifically the Honolulu connection. However, travelers should verify specific flight numbers and schedules via their airline app as these increases are not yet guaranteed.

FAQ: Hollywood Burbank Airport 2026

Do I need more time for security at the new terminal? No. Security capacity has increased from five to eight lanes, which should actually reduce your wait time compared to the old facility.

Is the airport expanding the number of flights? Not immediately. The project focused on safety and passenger experience. The airport still operates 14 gates, though some airlines may increase frequency on existing routes.

How has parking changed? Lot C and Lot E are closed. All parking has moved to a new structure with 2,000 spaces and 310 EV charging ports.

Are there jet bridges for all flights? No. Despite the $1.3 billion upgrade, many passengers will still board aircraft using outdoor stairs.

Pack light, arrive early, and enjoy the shorter walk to your gate.

---

Related Travel Guides

• Air India Becomes First Indian Airline to Deploy NDC Technology, Revolutionizing Travel Distribution in 2024

• SkyWest Operated United Airlines Flight UA6074, a Bombardier CRJ200 from Chicago to Clarksburg Divert to John Glenn Columbus International Airport, United States Sparks Questions After Unexpected Flight Diversion to Columbus

• Breaking Airline News: Terrifying Middle East Conflict Triggers Massive Flight Diversions and Severe Global Travel Chaos