Pasadena Councilmember and Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority President Tyron Hampton hosted an Independent Media and Influencer Tour of Hollywood Burbank Airport’s new replacement passenger terminal on Wednesday, October 7, bringing together 18 participants for a firsthand look at the facility ahead of its anticipated opening.
The tour brought together independent journalists, community-based media outlets, digital content creators, and regional civic leaders from across Los Angeles County. Participants toured the facility, engaged with airport staff, conducted interviews, and captured original content for their respective audiences.
Infrastructure Investment and Economic Opportunity
Beyond modernizing the passenger experience, the new terminal highlights opportunities for local businesses, artists, and advertisers. The facility will feature restaurant and retail concessions, creating opportunities for businesses to serve travelers and expand their visibility. Public art installations will provide space for artists to showcase their work, while terminal advertising opportunities will allow businesses to connect with regional and international audiences.
During the tour, airport representatives also discussed the airport’s 39 hangars, prompting questions from attendees about airport operations and development.
“Major infrastructure investments should do more than move people from one place to another. They should create opportunities for local businesses, showcase the talent of our artists, and connect communities across the region,” said Councilmember Hampton. “It was important to me that independent journalists and content creators had a seat at the table and the opportunity to see this project firsthand. The stories being told about investments like this should reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.”
Expanding Access to Regional Development
The tour provided an opportunity for independent media and community storytellers to engage directly with a major regional infrastructure project and share information with audiences beyond traditional press channels. The event generated articles, interviews, photography, and social media content, as well as invitations for future podcast appearances and community engagements. Hollywood Burbank Airport’s replacement terminal, known as Elevate BUR, is a 355,000-square-foot facility featuring 14 passenger gates. The project is designed to meet modern safety and seismic standards while providing updated passenger amenities, dining and retail options, and improved accessibility. Passenger operations are scheduled to begin October 13, 2026.
