Burbank Airport Unveils New Terminal with Luxury Retail, Opening Day Glitches
The billion-dollar facility boasts updated amenities and high-end shopping, but faced operational challenges on its first day.
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) officially opened its new billion-dollar terminal on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, offering passengers an upgraded experience with spacious halls and an unexpected addition of luxury retail. However, the inaugural day was not without its hiccups, including unoperational restaurants and malfunctioning flight information displays.
The new terminal, dubbed "Elevate BUR," aims to replace the charm of the old 1950s-era building with modern amenities. The author, who was on one of the first flights out of the new facility, reported a smooth arrival process, noting that the parking structure was easily accessible, and security lines moved quickly, with TSA PreCheck taking less than five minutes. This contrasts with the often-congested Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Among the new offerings, a prominent display of Gucci handbags, priced between $1,500 and $4,000, greeted travelers past security. One passenger, Andy Orbeck, expressed surprise at the luxury offerings, noting it was a significant change from the airport's previous offerings.
Despite the upscale additions, several amenities were not yet operational. Restaurants such as Poquito Mas, Spring Chicken, and Boarder Grill were either closed or still under construction. The terminal also appeared to lack a lounge area for VIP travelers. Furthermore, many of the new digital arrival and departure screens were not functioning correctly. Southwest Airlines ground crew were observed directing passengers to their correct gates verbally, as the screens displayed inaccurate information. Flight schedules also experienced delays, with one flight to Oakland being held up due to the crew's difficulty locating the aircraft.
Despite these opening-day issues, the core strengths of the old Burbank airport appear to have been retained. The new terminal maintains easy access and a generally stress-free travel experience, according to the author's account. The $49-per-day parking fee and quick security process were highlighted as key benefits continuing into the new facility.
The previous terminal, which had served for approximately 100 years, was known for its close parking, direct tarmac loading, and efficient TSA process, making it a favored alternative to LAX for many Angelenos. The new facility's opening marks a significant modernization for the airport, aiming to balance convenience with enhanced passenger services.