Full Breakdown
LAX Automated People Mover Enters Testing Phase Amid Disputes
4/17/2026, 10:09:20 AM
Overview of the Testing Phase
The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is set to begin a critical testing phase for its long-awaited Automated People Mover (APM) on April 20, 2026. This phase, known as “simulated operations,” will involve empty trains running continuously on a 2.25-mile elevated track, mirroring the planned 24/7 schedule for actual passengers. Each of the four-car trains can accommodate up to 200 passengers, with a system capacity projected to transport 85 million passengers annually. The APM is part of a $3.34 billion project that aims to connect airport terminals, parking areas, a rental car hub, and the Los Angeles Metro system.
Background on Project Delays
Originally slated for completion in 2023, the APM project has faced significant delays due to ongoing financial and technical disputes between Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and its contractor, LAX Integrated Express Solutions (LINXS). The project is currently reported to be approximately 95% complete, but disputes over faulty electrical equipment and additional costs have hindered progress. A recent claim by LINXS indicates that additional work required due to these disputes has cost $36 million.
Key Figures Involved
Jake Adams, an executive overseeing the APM project, has expressed optimism about resolving the disputes without delaying the public opening of the train. LINXS, formed in 2018 and comprising Fluor, Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Flatiron West, and Dragados, is responsible for the design, construction, and operation of the APM. The group has faced accusations of improper conduct and has been involved in litigation with subcontractors over financial disputes.
Testing Requirements and Challenges
The testing phase requires the APM to operate for 30 consecutive days without any significant issues, termed “hiccups.” A major failure, such as a train breakdown, would reset this testing clock, while minor issues, like malfunctioning doors, could also count against the system's reliability. Adams has indicated that the testing process is expected to last around 60 days, based on experiences from other airports with similar systems.
Disputes and Legal Considerations
The ongoing disputes between LAWA and LINXS have escalated, with the potential for legal action looming. A claim filed by LINXS under state law was rejected by the L.A. City Attorney's Office, allowing for a six-month window for LINXS to pursue litigation. The disputes have raised concerns about the project's timeline, with the FIFA World Cup in June 2026 now unlikely to coincide with the APM's public opening.
Official Statements and Future Steps
Adams has stated that the airport's peak summer traveler count is expected to exceed the number of visitors for the World Cup, suggesting that operational challenges may not arise even if the APM is not ready by then. Once the testing phase concludes successfully, further steps will include resolving outstanding disputes related to landscaping and obtaining approval from the California Public Utilities Commission.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s a big milestone for the project, and a visible milestone,” — Jake Adams, Airport Executive
- “The requirement is that [the contractor has] to operate it for 30 consecutive days without a hiccup,” — Jake Adams, Airport Executive
- “failure to resolve this … will ultimately lead to contract termination this coming fall, resulting in the City of Los Angeles having to repay the Lenders’ Liabilities which, at this early stage, is estimated to be over $1.1 Billion.” — William Dachs, CEO of LINXS
The future of the APM hinges on the successful completion of the testing phase and the resolution of ongoing disputes, with no definitive opening date currently established.
