American breaks ground on $1.6bn LAX remodel

American Airlines broke ground on its US$1.6b bet on Los Angeles International airport on 17 October, a renovation project that aims to modernise and merge terminals 4 and 5, and position the West Coast hub as its gateway to Asia. As part of the renovations, planned for completion a decade from now, American will build a unified departure hall, that will combine the entranceway of terminals 4 and 5 and connect via a footbridge to a planned automated people mover at the centre of the airport. The company also plans to reconfigure the ticket counter and check-in areas to reduce wait times before security screening. The unified 300,000 square-foot, 28-gate complex will feature upgraded amenities, such as more power outlets, as well as additional restaurants and retail locations. American said the project marks its largest individual investment at an airport in its 92-year history.<br/>