LAX Automated People Mover Enters Testing Phase

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Part of a $30 billion airport overhaul, the driverless electric rail system at Los Angeles International Airport is now running trial laps on its 2.25-mile elevated guideway. Nighttime test runs of the Automated People Mover (APM) commenced on Friday, marking a significant milestone for the centerpiece of LAX's modernization program.

Why it matters

The APM is designed to streamline access between terminals, parking structures, and ground transportation hubs at LAX, providing a critical transit alternative for travelers and employees ahead of several major international events hosted by the city. Once operational, the system is projected to reduce daily vehicle traffic at the airport by 117,000 miles.

The details

The driverless electric train system will operate 24 hours a day across six dedicated stations, with three stops located within the Central Terminal Area and three others situated externally to facilitate smoother pickups and drop-offs. The service will be free for ticketed passengers, airport staff, and those meeting travelers. The electric fleet features 44 cars, which will be configured into nine four-car sets during peak travel hours, each with a capacity of 200 passengers. LAWA officials estimate the system will transport approximately 30 million people annually.

• Nighttime test runs of the Automated People Mover (APM) commenced on Friday, March 24, 2026.
• Construction on the project began in March 2019.
• The system is slated for completion by the end of 2026.

What’s next

The project is on track for completion by the end of 2026, with the Automated People Mover system expected to begin full operations shortly after.