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Hollywood Burbank Airport

About the Airport

Hollywood Burbank Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Hollywood Burbank Airport (formerly known as Bob Hope Airport) is arguably the most convenient gateway to Los Angeles for those who value their time and peace of mind. Unlike giant international hubs, this cosy airport retains the atmosphere of the golden age of aviation, where boarding often takes place directly from the tarmac bathed in California sunshine. It serves as the ideal starting point for tourists wishing to be just a few minutes' drive from legendary film studios and the glamour of Hollywood.

IATA Code BUR
ICAO Code KBUR
City Burbank
Distance to Centre ~5 km (to Burbank centre), ~24 km (to Los Angeles centre)
Status Domestic
Annual Passengers Over 6.5 million (2024 data)
Schedule Available on the official airport website

Travelers choose this airport not only for its convenient logistics but also for its unique features that turn arrival into a small adventure:

  • Close to the Stars: This is the nearest airport to iconic locations such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Park, and the Warner Bros. headquarters. You can find yourself in the centre of entertainment literally 15–20 minutes after collecting your luggage.
  • Retro Charm and Efficiency: The terminals are designed so compactly that the journey from the entrance to the boarding gate takes mere minutes. A distinctive feature of Burbank is boarding and disembarking using ramps (just like in old movies), allowing you to immediately feel the California weather.
  • Rail Connectivity: This is the only airport in the Los Angeles region with direct rail service to the city centre (Downtown LA) via Amtrak and Metrolink services, allowing you to avoid the famous Los Angeles traffic jams.
  • Passenger Convenience: Thanks to two runways and lighter traffic compared to LAX, long delays on the taxiway are rare here, and baggage claim is surprisingly fast.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled key contact information for Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

  • Official Website: hollywoodburbankairport.com
  • Inquiry Service Phone: (818) 840-8840
  • Address: 2627 N. Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505, USA
  • Email: For most inquiries, the airport suggests using the contact forms available on the official website.
  • Social Media: You can follow airport news on its official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, typically under the handle @flyBUR.
  • Lost and Found: If you have lost an item in the terminal or parking lot, please contact the airport's Lost and Found bureau. Contact information and a claim form can be found in the relevant section of the website. For lost luggage or items left on board the aircraft, you should contact your airline directly.
  • Passenger Support Service: General questions can be directed to the main airport phone number. To resolve issues related to tickets, schedules, or carriage regulations, please contact your airline's representative office.

How to Get to the Airport

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is conveniently located in the San Fernando Valley, making it a popular choice for travellers heading to the northern areas of Los Angeles and its surroundings. You can reach it in several ways, each offering its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and travel plans across the USA.

Public Transport is one of the most economical options. Directly adjacent to the airport is the Regional Intermodal Transportation Center (RITC), which serves Amtrak trains and Metrolink commuter trains. This is an ideal choice if you are travelling from downtown Los Angeles or other cities in Southern California. From the train station to the terminals, you can walk in a few minutes or use the complimentary shuttle. Additionally, Metro Bus and BurbankBus services operate to the airport, connecting it with various parts of the city of Burbank and the valley.

Taxis and Ride-hailing (Uber, Lyft) are a fast and convenient way to get to the airport, especially if you have a lot of luggage. A trip from downtown Los Angeles will take between 30 to 60 minutes depending on the famous California traffic. The cost will be higher than public transport and can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and demand. Pick-up and drop-off zones for these services are clearly marked at the terminals.

Car Rental is an excellent option for those planning to move actively around the region. Offices of all major rental companies are located in the same transportation centre (RITC) as the train stations. This allows you to easily pick up a car immediately upon arrival. Hollywood Burbank Airport is often chosen as a calmer and more convenient alternative to the giant Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and having a rental car immediately provides freedom of movement.

If you are arriving in your own vehicle, the airport offers several parking options. There are short-term parking lots located directly opposite the terminals, as well as more budget-friendly long-term and economy parking lots, from which free shuttles run to the terminals. It is recommended to check rates and availability online, especially during peak travel seasons.

Terminals and Map

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is renowned for its simplicity and convenience, which distinguishes it favourably from the region's major aviation hubs. Essentially, it is one main terminal, which is divided into two interconnected concourses for passenger convenience — Terminal A and Terminal B. Such a structure makes navigation intuitively clear and fast.

Both terminals are located in the same building, and walking between them takes just a few minutes. You will not require shuttles or long walks. Check-in and baggage claim areas for all airlines are located on the ground floor, while boarding gates and security checkpoints are on the first floor. Terminal A handles the majority of flights and features boarding gates A1 through A9, while Terminal B has gates B1 through B5.

One of the main advantages of the airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Thanks to its compact size and thoughtful logistics, flight check-in and security screening rarely take much time. On average, you can get from the building entrance to the boarding gate in 30-45 minutes, although, of course, it is always recommended to arrive with time to spare, especially during peak hours.

To navigate the airport, simply follow the clear and understandable signs. After passing security control, you enter a common secure area, from where you can freely walk to the gates of either terminal. All essential amenities, including cafes and shops, are within walking distance, making waiting for your flight comfortable and free from unnecessary hassle.

Airport History

The history of Hollywood Burbank Airport is a fascinating journey through the golden age of Hollywood, innovations in aviation, and World War II. The airport opened on 30 May 1930 under the name United Airport. Almost immediately, it became a favourite spot for Hollywood stars and tycoons, such as Howard Hughes and Amelia Earhart, thanks to its proximity to film studios. In its early years, it quickly established itself as the premier aviation hub for the Los Angeles region.

A key stage in the airport's development began in 1940 when it was acquired by the aircraft manufacturing company Lockheed. It was renamed Lockheed Air Terminal and became not only a passenger hub but also a vital centre for aircraft production. During World War II, the airport played a critical role in the military efforts of the USA. To protect production facilities from potential attack, the entire airport and Lockheed plant territory were skilfully camouflaged, covered by a giant net painted to look like a quiet suburban neighbourhood. This was one of the most massive camouflage projects in history.

After the war, the airport continued to serve growing passenger traffic, but with the advent of the jet age, it faced new challenges, including noise restrictions. In 1978, Lockheed sold the airport to the cities of Burbank, Glendale, and Pasadena, leading to the creation of a new governing authority and renaming it Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport. Over the years, the airport has undergone several modernisations to meet modern safety and comfort standards.

In 2003, the airport was named in honour of the famous comedian and frequent guest — Bob Hope Airport. However, to better reflect its strategic location for tourists, a decision was made in 2016 to return the historical and geographical reference, and it became known as Hollywood Burbank Airport. Today, it remains a popular and convenient alternative to the larger Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), while preserving its unique historical charm.

Services and Amenities

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) offers passengers a compact yet well-organised set of services, making the wait for a flight convenient and pleasant. Here you will find everything necessary for a comfortable journey, whether it is a short business trip or the start of a grand holiday.

For those feeling hungry, the terminals feature several cafes and restaurants offering both quick snacks and full meals. You can enjoy a coffee, grab a sandwich, or dine in a more relaxed setting. There are also small shops where you can buy newspapers, souvenirs, and travel essentials.

Staying connected is easy: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous power outlets and special charging stations located in waiting areas near boarding gates are provided for charging electronic devices.

For passengers seeking greater comfort, convenient waiting lounges are equipped. While the airport does not host large international airline VIP lounges, there is a special USO Lounge for military personnel and their families. Financial matters can be handled using ATMs located in both terminals. Currency exchange points at the airport may be limited, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: accessible parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and equipped restrooms are available. Travellers with small children can use mother and child rooms for care and feeding. In case of necessity, first aid can be obtained at the airport.

If you need to stay overnight, there are several hotels of various price categories in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which offer free transfers for their guests. Although there are no specialised business centres or conference rooms within the terminal itself, business travellers can utilise corresponding services in nearby hotels.

Where to Eat

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), despite its compact size, offers passengers a decent selection of establishments where one can have a snack or a full lunch. Most cafes and restaurants are located in the "clean" zone, after passing security control, so plan your time accordingly.

The main food court is located in Terminal A. Here, travellers can find both quick-service outlets and sit-down restaurants. Popular spots include Guy Fieri's Kitchen + Bar, offering hearty American cuisine with a Californian twist, and Wolfgang Puck Kitchen, where you can order pizza, salads, and sandwiches in a more refined format. These establishments are excellent for a leisurely lunch or dinner before departure. Operating hours usually cover the period from early morning until the departure of the last flights.

In Terminal B, the selection is slightly more modest, but everything necessary is available. You will find coffee shops such as Jones Coffee Roasters, where you can get excellent coffee and fresh pastries. This is an ideal option for those rushing for a flight. Outlets with ready-made sandwiches, salads, and beverages are also available. Both terminals feature venues offering a variety of beverages.

Regarding special dietary needs, most establishments offer vegetarian options, such as salads or sandwiches with vegetables. In coffee shops, you can always ask for plant-based milk. Finding certified gluten-free or Halal meals might be more challenging, so it is recommended to clarify ingredients directly with the staff. The price range is average for airports in the USA: a coffee will cost $4-6, and a main dish in a restaurant — $18-30.

Thus, if you are short on time, the best choice would be coffee shops or kiosks with ready-made food in either terminal. If time permits, we recommend visiting one of the restaurants in Terminal A to enjoy a full meal in a comfortable setting and feel the gastronomic spirit of California right at Burbank airport.

Travel Tips

Travelling through Hollywood Burbank Airport in the city of Burbank can be surprisingly pleasant and fast if you know a few subtleties. This airport is significantly smaller and calmer than its giant neighbour LAX, making it a favourite among many locals and tourists. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of these tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within the USA, it is usually sufficient to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. The airport is compact, and queues for check-in and security screening are typically shorter. To save time, check in for your flight online and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone. Baggage drop-off counters usually work quickly, but it is better to have a time buffer during peak hours.

Passing Security Control: Despite the smaller size, security rules here are standard. Prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag), and remove laptops and other large electronics from your bags. If you have access to the TSA PreCheck programme, be sure to use this line for even faster screening.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will give you picturesque views of the San Fernando Valley during takeoff or landing, while an aisle seat provides greater convenience if you need to stand up. Regarding hand luggage, strictly follow your airline's rules on weight and dimensions. Do not place sharp objects, flammable liquids, or other prohibited items in your hand luggage.

Customs Control and Transfers: The airport mainly serves domestic flights, so customs control is a rarity. If your flight is international, keep your passport and completed declaration ready. For passengers with transfers, navigation will not be difficult thanks to the simple and clear layout of the terminals. Screens with flight information are located everywhere, so you will easily find your next gate.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security at special water fountains. You can also bring light snacks to avoid spending money on expensive food. In case of flight delay, first contact your airline representative for current information and possible options (rebooking, meal vouchers). The airport has free Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops to help pass the time while waiting.

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