Terminals 4 and 5, home to American Airlines, JetBlue and Spirit Airlines, is undergoing a $1.6 billion modernization slated to complete in 2027 that will create a centralized location for ticketing, screening and baggage claim with enhanced amenities for guests, as well as provide direct connection to the Automated People Mover (APM) train system.

The modernization project includes a Terminal Vertical Core, which provides for vertical circulation of passengers with escalators and elevators, as well as connection to the APM’s West Central Terminal Area (CTA) station via an elevated pedestrian walkway over World Way. The Terminal Vertical Core also will include new passenger check-in and baggage claim facilities, a consolidated security screening checkpoint, a new headhouse area for passenger processing and a new post-security connection between Terminals 4 and 5.

The Terminal Vertical Core also provides office and support spaces for airlines, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other law enforcement agencies. The glass curtain wall, or exterior façade of the building, complements the mid-century modern design aesthetic being incorporated on all new construction at LAX, providing a cohesive look and feel to the CTA.

A new south concourse will be constructed inside Terminal 4, featuring additional space for hold rooms, concessions, restrooms and a bus gate that will serve both domestic and international traffic. Two existing aircraft gates will also be rebuilt to support U.S. Customs and Border Protection Federal Inspection Station capability. Improvements will be made to the north concourse that will increase the efficiency of passenger movements.

Additional work includes improvements to Terminal 4 power systems, including transformers and backup power, replacement of the terminal's aircraft apron and a reconfiguration of its hydrant fueling system and underground utilities.

Highlights of the modernization include:

• Unified 300,000-plus square-foot, 30-gate complex for Terminals 4 and 5
• Less roadway congestion thanks to access from public transportation via the new APM
• A spacious new departure hall that allows direct, natural sunlight throughout the building to reduce energy consumption
• Reconfigured ticket counter and check-in areas to reduce wait times before security screening
• Seamless access from check-in directly to security screening areas
• 16 lanes for security screening with automated technology
• Transparent design with modern signage to guide passengers intuitively to their gates
• Modern, state-of-the-art finishes and restroom facilities
• Upgraded amenities at gate areas, including more access to power outlets and world-class dining and retail options

The modernization project is designed to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

The Terminal 4 and 5 modernization project is being built by Hensel Phelps, with PGAL (Terminal 4) and Gensler (Terminal 4.5 Vertical Core) serving as design partners. The project is pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for the Terminal Vertical Core and the new portions of the Terminal 4 headhouse and concourse.

An earlier $148.5 million project completed in September 2016 included the design and construction of a multi-use, multi-level facility providing a secure connection between the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) and Terminal 4, making it easier for passengers to catch connecting flights out of different terminals. The 104,170-square-foot Terminal 4 connector is a CAL Green Certified space that also includes a Checked Baggage Inspection System, South Matrix Interline Baggage Transfer facility, and a four-lane Passenger Security Screening Check Point. The connector also includes a bus port, and a public plaza provides outdoor seating on the upper level.

As Los Angeles World Airports continues to build a better LAX, work force development and inclusivity are important components of each of its projects. For the Terminals 4/5 modernization, American Airlines has committed to achieve a goal of 20 percent of the work going to local and diverse business enterprises.