Local

LAX People Mover opening target slips to January 2027

The contractor says passenger service could begin January 6 after required testing and approvals, but further delays remain possible.

Image credit: RickyCourtney / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; archival 2021 construction photo

The Los Angeles Times reported September 24 that contractors now see January 6, 2027, as the earliest target for passenger service on the LAX Automated People Mover. A September 16 disclosure from contractor LAX Integrated Express Solutions said the project likely needs more time beyond its December 8 completion deadline. The 2.25-mile electric train had originally been scheduled to open in 2023 and more recently was expected to begin service in October 2026.

What it means locally

Before carrying passengers, the train must complete 30 consecutive days of successful testing, pass an independent review and receive an assessment from Los Angeles World Airports. A utility agreement with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power also remains outstanding. Airport officials said safety testing would not be shortened to meet a date.

When it opens, the train is designed to connect airport terminals with parking, rental-car facilities and the LAX/Metro Transit Center. The contractor’s January 6 date is a target rather than a guarantee; its filing said passenger service could be delayed again. The accompanying photograph shows People Mover construction in 2021 and is not a current image of testing.

Full report and further details: Read original report →