LAX People Mover to Open in January
Los Angeles International Airport plans to launch its new automated rail system early next year following years of delays.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Air Travel
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The two-mile automated Skylink rail system at Los Angeles International Airport is now expected to open for passengers in January 2027. The project, which connects airport terminals to regional transit hubs, is currently 99% complete.
Why it matters
The rail project remains three years behind its initial schedule and $1.35 billion over its original budget due to legal disputes. Opening the system is critical for managing passenger traffic ahead of major events like the 2028 Olympic Games.
The automated train system spans two miles and carries a total cost of $3.34 billion. It is currently awaiting a mandatory 30-day final testing period before service begins.
The players
Los Angeles World Airports
This is the city department responsible for the management and operation of Los Angeles International Airport and Van Nuys Airport.
The details
The project is stalled while awaiting completion of a 30-day final testing period required for safety and operational clearance. A legal battle persists between the main contractor and Los Angeles World Airports over which party is responsible for the project's significant delays.
Timeline
The rail system is scheduled to open for passenger service in January 2027.
The project was originally slated to begin service in 2023.
Los Angeles will host the Super Bowl at SoFi Stadium in 2027.
The city is preparing for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2028.
Travel Outlook
This project is a direct response to the infrastructure needs of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which place significant pressure on regional transit capacity. The expansion mirrors long-term trends of major international hubs prioritizing automated transit over traditional shuttle services.
Travelers should expect significant changes to how they navigate between airport terminals, rental car centers, and the Metro rail station once the system begins operations. Monitoring official airport communications in January will be essential for those planning transit through LAX during the lead-up to the 2027 Super Bowl.
The takeaway
The successful launch of the Skylink system is vital for streamlining the notoriously difficult transit experience at one of the world's busiest airports. Travelers are encouraged to account for potential final testing delays when planning their airport arrival times in early 2027.
Further reading
For more information on local transit updates, visit the Air Travel section.
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Do you trust your local government to manage large-scale taxpayer-funded infrastructure projects efficiently?
