Gallery: Delta, LAX Unveil First Phase Of Sky Way Project

The Delta Sky Way at LAX project is on target to be completed in 2023, with Terminals 2 and 3 consolidated into a 1.2-million-sq.-ft., 27-gate complex.

On March 30, 2022, STV joined Delta Air Lines and Los Angeles World Airports to celebrate the official opening of the new central headhouse connecting Terminals 2 and 3 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of phase 1 of the Delta Sky Way at LAX program. STV, in joint venture with Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, is performing program and project management, baggage handling system management, scheduling, financial controls, change and contracts management, and tenant move management services for the program: a $2+ billion initiative that will enhance terminals 2 and 3 of LAX ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Pictured, from left: STV project director Bruno Piana, Satterfield & Pontikes construction president clay morel and EVP Frank Roetzel, STV SVP and national aviation practice lead Joe Thompson.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and other public officials from the city of Los Angeles and LAWA celebrated the milestone by debuting the new headhouse at an official ribbon-cutting ceremony March 29.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian said: “Over a decade ago, we committed to becoming the premier airline of Los Angeles. Today, we are celebrating a huge milestone in making the Delta Sky Way project dream a reality. In partnership with LAWA and the City of Los Angeles, we’ve built a modern, state-of-the-art facility that will make travel through LAX a seamless and elevated experience. This terminal unveiling is just one example of our many critical infrastructure investments totaling more than $12 billion across the country. From coast to coast, customers will choose Delta for leading with innovation to build the airports of the future.”

In partnership with the US Transportation Security Administration, qualifying customers departing LAX can choose to use the latest facial recognition technology to check bags, pass through security and board their flight completely hands-free through use of their digital identity (made up of a customer’s SkyMiles Member number, passport number and Known Traveler).

Delta’s new facility will consolidate operations and feature a centralized check-in lobby, as well as an expanded security checkpoint and baggage claim area, to create a more efficient and seamless experience for our customers.

All building systems are designed to meet CalGreen 2016 and will be LEED Silver Certified, because building a sustainably focused facility was just as important as creating a more efficient travel experience. Key sustainability features include low-flow water fixtures, recycling of over 75% of construction waste, use of low-emitting materials for interior spaces for good indoor air quality, and implementation of a cool roof to reduce the heat island effect and maximize air conditioning energy use.

In addition to the central headhouse, a completely new, premier Delta Sky Club at LAX will open to passengers in April and be one of the largest in Delta's system. It features over 30,000 feet of premium space, including an indoor/outdoor double bar, a year-round outdoor Sky Deck, premium showers and more, for customers to relax and recharge before, during or after their travels.

Six baggage claim carousels will live on the first floor of the headhouse.

The check-in lobby will feature 32 self-serve kiosks and 46 check-in positions.

Seven security lanes will be open on April 20, with all 14 lanes fully operational later in summer 2022. Eleven of 14 lanes are Automated Screening Lanes to improve customer convenience and checkpoint throughput. A 250-foot digital backwall features flight information in both English and Spanish as well as Sky Club volume and gate information.

Fun fact: 250 feet is nearly 20% wider than the wingspan of Delta’s largest aircraft, the Airbus A350-900.

On April 20, Delta will welcome customers to the centralized check-in lobby and expanded security checkpoint and baggage claim area for the first time, creating a more efficient and seamless experience from the moment they arrive.