Flyaway Terminal Upgrade Proposed

To lessen freeway traffic while providing more travel-related jobs and tourism revenue, the Valley Industry and Commerce Assn. is calling for improvements to the Van Nuys Flyaway airport bus service.

The VICA board of directors voted this week to support the San Fernando Valley Conference and Visitors Bureau’s attempt to seek funding from the city Department of Airports for a cost-benefit analysis of the proposed upgrade.

If the proposal for a new satellite terminal proved feasible, then VICA would take up the cause and help possible improvements through the approval process, VICA Chairman Steve Lew said.

“Tourism is very important to the San Fernando Valley and LAX is such an important part of delivering visitors to the Valley,” Lew said. “Rather than being just a bus stop, the bureau and others believe it’s time for the facility to be upgraded.”

The proposed changes would provide baggage service to and from airlines operating out of LAX, expanded parking facilities, improved shuttle service to and from hotels in the Valley and a promotions campaign throughout the world tourism industry.

Other amenities, such as rental car and money exchange facilities, a gift shop, restaurant and short-term office service and meeting areas, would be provided.

Created in 1975, the flyaway was established to reduce traffic and parking congestion at LAX.

Services at the park-and-ride facility include taxi and bus service to and from LAX, airline ticketing desks and waiting areas.