Testing begins for the long-awaited Automated People Mover at LAX

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- For the first time, the long-awaited Automated People Mover began running on a full schedule this week - without passengers - marking a critical step toward getting the system ready for the public.

Airport officials say the 2.25-mile fully electric train will operate continuously for about two months, circling the airport's central terminal area before it connects travelers to parking structures, rental car facilities and pick-up and drop-off zones.

It's part of a rigorous testing phase designed to simulate real-world conditions, making sure the system can handle the demands of one of the busiest airports in the country.

Airport officials overseeing the $5.5 billion effort say before passengers can step on board, the system must complete at least 30 consecutive days of smooth, uninterrupted operation.

Construction on the Automated People Mover first began back in 2019, with an original opening target of 2023. But the project has faced multiple delays tied to technical issues and disputes between airport officials and the contractor LAX Integrated Express Solutions.

Those disputes have led to mounting financial claims and slowed progress, but officials say they're hopeful the remaining issues can be resolved without further setbacks.

Once complete, the elevated rail system with six stations will offer free rides for ticketed passengers, their guests and airport employees.

"On our LAX campus, the train is going to connect to all three of the terminals, plus it's going to connect to three stations outside of the terminals.," said Jake Adams with LAX. "The game-changing part is that from our rental car facility, which is located out by the 405 Freeway, to Tom Bradley International Terminal, you're going to be able to travel from there to there in less than ten minutes, and you know today, you can't get from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 in 10 minutes on some days."

Airport officials have not said when the train system will be open to the public.