As Passenger Numbers Dwindle, Hollywood Burbank Airport Moves to Consolidate Operations

Hollywood Burbank Airport is consolidating operations to a single terminal as travelers hit pause on their plans and stay at home because of the growing coronavirus pandemic.

According to a statement from airport officials, beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday all departures and arrivals will now take place from Terminal A. Signs will be posted outside of Terminal B directing passengers to the open terminal.

Ticket-counter and baggage services, as well as security screenings, have also been moved to Terminal A as part of the effort, according to the statement.

Lucy Burghdorf, a spokeswoman for the airport, said in the statement that Hollywood Burbank will continue to implement any further changes to its operations as necessary during the pandemic.

Although it’s usually more peaceful than larger airports like Los Angeles International, Hollywood Burbank has increasingly become like a ghost town as the virus continues its spread across the country.

All seven airlines that fly out of Burbank have either seen a decline in the number of reservations since the beginning of March or have plans to cut back on the number of flights being offered until the crisis is over, according to previous reports.

Dwindling passenger numbers have also prompted airport officials to close two parking lots and its valet service.

The airport has also stepped up its hygiene efforts, placing hand sanitizer dispensers at nearly every open corner and walkway of the facility. Janitors have started spraying down seats in waiting areas with disinfectant rather than wiping them down by hand.

Increased safety protocols have been implemented for all employees at the airport after a ground-support crew member tested positive last month for the virus that causes COVID-19.

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