EDITORIAL AIRPORT ALTERNATIVE BOOM IN PASSENGER TRAFFIC AT BURBANK SHOWS WHAT PUBLIC WANTS.

WHAT does it mean that traffic at Burbank's airport increased by a whopping 12 percent last year - to the highest level in the airport's history?

It means that, if given an alternative, many Southern California residents would gladly give up LAX.

The impressive jump at Burbank's Bob Hope Airport significantly outpaced the rate of growth at Los Angeles International Airport last year despite many major airlines' reluctance to set up operations in more than one regional facility.

One of the biggest factors in Burbank's growing popularity is Jet Blue, which now offers four daily flights from Burbank to New York City. But other cross-country and West Coast routes have also seen a surge in passenger interest.

No surprise there. Many an experienced Southland traveler would happily do without the lines at LAX or the congestion along the 405 Freeway. That's why a truly regional airport system would not only do wonders for local traffic, but for consumer choice, too.