Long Beach Airport is ready to show off its $26 million new ticketing lobby.
City and airport officials gathered this afternoon for the ribbon-cutting of the new facility, which opens for public use on May 4. The lobby, which is part of the $110 million Phase II Terminal Area Improvement program, features state-of-the-art amenities built to accommodate the modern traveler.
The project, though, hasn’t been without its hurdles. Delays and rising costs had significant impacts on the construction process.
“We have successfully navigated the challenges brought by the pandemic through the partnership as so many,” Long Beach Airport Director Cynthia Guidry said at the ceremony.
The new 16,700-square-foot building offers new ticketing kiosks that are touchless outside of an initial input. It’s one example of how facilities continue to adapt to life in the wake of the pandemic.
“These improvements will enhance the features that make Long Beach Airport unparalleled as the transportation hub of choice of Southern California,” Long Beach Councilmember Daryl Supernaw said at the ceremony.
Unlike traditional terminals—which use designated spaces for particular airlines—the lobby accommodates airlines based on current demands for their services.
A new checked bag inspection system will also be opening alongside the facility as a way to further expedite the check-in process for departing travelers. The almost-6,500-foot facility will be connected directly to the ticketing lobby and feature new explosive detection systems to maximize safety.
“Our ticketing lobby and our state-of-the-art baggage inspection system are great additions to what is already, in my opinion, the best and easiest place to fly in and out in the entire state of California,” Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said. “Today really marks the beginning of the second phase of improvements to our airport.”
The airport will hold a community open house on Saturday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with family-friendly activities, refreshments and tours of the new lobby. Parking will be free.
