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International visitors’ first and last impressions of LA are made at LAX. With the airport’s Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) extensive renovations, both arrival and departure experiences are better than ever. This is a 21st century terminal for 21st century travelers. Designers have studied what customers need from the moment they step into the terminal to the moment they board as well as from the moment they deplane and move on to curbside.

The extensive project has resulted in terminal that anticipates as well as meets passenger needs. Designed with customer comfort and safety in mind, the $723.5 million renovation, which began in early 2007, is now two-thirds complete. All the construction work has been done while the terminal, which serves more than 30 airlines, is fully functional, making it an exceptionally complex undertaking every step of the way.
The lobby features two middle rows of ticketing counters that face each other. In addition two more check-in rows -- 30 stations each -- have been completed, with fifth and sixth rows to open in a few months. Of major importance to travelers is getting the latest information on their flight. New easy to read and easy to locate video screens have been installed.
While necessary for passenger safety, the large explosive-detection devices didn’t need to take up 40 percent of the check-in lobby area as they once did. They have been moved to a new baggage-screening matrix on the terminal’s north side freeing up lobby space.
A new contemporary decor has been incorporated into every area of the renovation. The colors of the lobby and boarding area are soothing and the designs sleek. The goal has also to consider passengers’ need for a pleasing environment during what can be a high stress time. Wood-paneled canopies soar above the check-in counters, an evocative touch that reflects the skyward nature of flight. The entire lobby is warmly lit by energy-saving lighting. Natural light filters through huge window surrounding the entrance.
LAX’s first pay-to-use business lounge, reLax Lounge, has become an instant hit with travelers, business and otherwise. All travelers (any airline and class of service) are welcome here. Located on the mezzanine beyond the passenger security stations, the Lounge offers more of the renovation’s signature contemporary decor plus panoramic views to the west. The admission is reasonable ($10 for one hour, $25 for three and $35 for five). Wireless Internet access, faxing, copying, laser printing are included in this admission fee. Snacks and beverages are complimentary. Meals and alcoholic drinks may be purchased. The lounge is open from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily.
Passengers arriving from international cities haven’t been left out. They will feel warmly welcomed the moment they step into the arrival area from their aircraft. There they will that discover six new baggage carousels have been added, all with higher capacity and speed. Going through customs and immigration is more efficient now. Federal officials, working at new stations with upgraded computer systems, can process arriving passengers quickly and get them on their way.
Also included in the renovation: an upgraded paging system, new signage and restrooms, plus redone ventilation and electrical systems. All of the renovations, as specified by the LA Board of Airport Commissioners, have been designed with a “green” approach. The project is the first at LAX to incorporate Leadership in Energy and Environmental (LEED) standards developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.
The renovations coincide with the arrival of a new generation of aircraft that requires updating of facilities wherever the fly. Service to Melbourne on the QANTAS Airbus A 380 began in Oct. 2008 and heralds the new era. In keeping with the practical priorities of our time, the aircraft is quieter, cleaner and more fuel-efficient. The Airbus 380, as well as the new Boeing 747-800, require reconfigured boarding gates. Boarding bridges lead to both the upper and main decks, which means that a full passenger load can deplane within 20 minutes. The LAX renovation included larger, state-of-the-art arrival halls needed for such large aircraft.