Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) has officially opened its new billion-dollar terminal, offering travelers a modern experience with amenities like Gucci handbags near Gate 7, but its inaugural day was met with some operational hiccups. The new facility aims to replace the airport's aging, decades-old terminal.
During an early morning flight on the terminal's opening day, passengers encountered a mix of impressive upgrades and lingering issues. The new terminal features a spacious design, replacing the cramped conditions of the former building. For travelers seeking high-end goods, luxury handbags from Gucci, priced between $1,500 and $4,000, were on display in a shop just past security, a surprising addition for many.
"I never thought I’d see Gucci in the Burbank Airport, you used to just hope for a decent cup of coffee," said passenger Andy Orbeck, who was flying to Bend, Oregon. "I’m not in the market for Gucci, but if I ever am it’s good to know it’s an option."
Despite the initial surprise of luxury retail, the convenience that characterized the old terminal appears to be maintained. Parking was readily available in the new structure, with the author securing a spot for $49 a day and reaching a gate within 20 minutes for an 8 a.m. boarding. The TSA PreCheck security line moved quickly, reportedly taking less than five minutes.
The interior of the new terminal is noted for its improved space and modern aesthetics. However, many of the food and beverage establishments were not yet open, with some still under construction. Options like Poquito Mas, Spring Chicken, and Boarder Grill were visible but not operational, leaving travelers without immediate dining choices.
"My own Oakland flight was delayed after the crew showed up late, having trouble locating the plane. At least airport greeters were handing out free coffee," the author noted, referencing a common opening-day disruption. The terminal also reportedly lacks a lounge for now.
Another issue reported was the functionality of the digital arrival and departure screens. Several screens were not working correctly, leading to confusion for passengers. Southwest Airlines ground crew frequently directed travelers to double-check their flight information via the airline's app, as the displayed gate numbers were sometimes inaccurate.
Despite these opening-day challenges, the core elements that made the previous terminal popular, such as easy access and efficient security, appear to be preserved in the new facility. The airport cost approximately $1 billion to construct and replaces a terminal that had been in operation for a century.
