LAX People Mover Will Launch in January 2027
The 2.25-mile automated train system at Los Angeles International Airport is nearing its final construction phase.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Air Travel
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The Automated People Mover at Los Angeles International Airport is scheduled to launch passenger service in January 2027. The 2.25-mile project is currently 99% complete.
Why it matters
Technical challenges and ongoing legal disputes between the city and contractors caused several delays since the original 2023 target opening. The project now faces a critical December 8 completion deadline to avoid potential contract termination.
The $3.3 billion infrastructure project spans 2.25 miles. The system requires 30 days of mandatory testing and assessment by Los Angeles World Airports before it can officially open to the public.
The players
Los Angeles World Airports
This is the city department that owns and operates Los Angeles International Airport and Van Nuys Airport.
LINXS
This consortium is the private contractor responsible for the construction and development of the people mover.
Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
This municipal utility agency is responsible for finalizing a necessary utility agreement for the project.
The details
Construction on the transit system began in 2019, but progress was stalled by a lawsuit filed by LINXS in July 2026. A grand jury report also criticized the contractor for various project issues, while Fitch Ratings placed project bonds on a negative watch list.
Timeline
Construction on the project began in 2019.
LINXS filed a lawsuit against the city in July 2026.
LINXS filed a project completion disclosure on September 16, 2026.
The project faces a hard completion deadline of December 8, 2026.
Passenger service is expected to launch in January 2027.
Roadmap
This project reflects a broader trend of complex public-private partnerships in airport infrastructure facing increased scrutiny. It highlights how transit integration projects are struggling to meet original timelines amid rising costs and legal entanglements.
Travelers should note that the system remains closed to the public and currently awaits a final 30-day testing window. Passengers arriving at the airport should continue to rely on existing shuttle and traffic arrangements until the official opening.
The takeaway
The project serves as a reminder that large-scale infrastructure developments often face multi-year delays due to complex utility and legal requirements. Travelers should anticipate further updates regarding specific opening dates in early 2027.
Further reading
For more updates on regional transit developments, visit Air Travel.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My News LA.
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