LAX People Mover Begins Service on Monday, Ready for Passengers Soon
LAX Launches Testing of Automated People Mover System
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is taking significant strides toward enhancing accessibility with the start of testing for its long-awaited Automated People Mover system. Beginning Monday, the 2.25-mile electric train will operate without passengers, marking a pivotal advancement in a project that has faced multiple delays.
According to airport officials, the trains will run on a full schedule for approximately two months as part of ongoing tests aimed at preparing the system for public use. The Automated People Mover will connect the airport’s central terminal area with parking facilities, as well as pick-up and drop-off zones.
"It’s really exciting, because not only is it a big milestone for the project, but it’s going to be a really visible milestone for all of our guests," stated airport executive Jake Adams in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. "They’re going to get to see tons of trains running up and down the guideway all over the LAX campus."
Adams is spearheading the $5.5 billion initiative designed to improve access at LAX. He noted that the testing phase will simulate actual operations, with trains running continuously to assess reliability and performance under expected conditions. For passenger service to commence, the system must achieve a 30-day period of uninterrupted operation free of significant issues.
Construction on the Automated People Mover began in 2019, with an initial launch date set for 2023. However, the project has encountered various setbacks attributed to technical difficulties and disagreements between Los Angeles World Airports and the contractor, LAX Integrated Express Solutions. These disputes have led to substantial financial claims and delays in the testing timeline. Despite these challenges, officials remain optimistic that outstanding issues can be resolved without further postponements.
Once fully operational, the electric train system will be accessible for free to ticketed passengers, their guests, and airport employees, featuring six stations along its elevated rail line. However, an official opening date for passenger service has not yet been announced.
