Los Angeles International Airport, LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the United States, often making headlines for its ongoing issues.

The airport access road from the 105 freeway is always congested, and it has been said that getting to the airport takes longer than the flight itself.

To alleviate this inconvenience, the LAX Automated People Mover project has emerged, which is a fully automated electric train system connecting the airport inside and out.

This train connects a total of six stations along a 2.25-mile elevated track. It links three terminals inside the airport with the large parking lot outside, the rental car center, and the LA Metro subway transfer center.

Until now, passengers had to take a shuttle that went around the airport, but once this train is completed, it will allow for direct travel from anywhere in the airport. It is said that it will take only about 10 minutes to travel the entire route.

Currently, about 95% of the entire project is completed, and testing and system trials are underway. The construction is scheduled to be completed by December 8, 2025, with full passenger operations starting in January 2026.

The tracks and station structures are mostly finished, so if you pass near LAX, you can see the long elevated tracks and the shiny glass exteriors of the stations.

The mover train operates on a fully automated, unmanned system and runs 24 hours a day. It drives itself without any personnel, and during peak hours, trains arrive approximately every 2 minutes.

Most importantly, the good news is that this train is free. While the shuttle bus is also free, it is said that anyone can ride it freely. Additionally, all MOVER vehicles operate on electricity and incorporate eco-friendly technology that recycles energy during braking.

This project initially aimed for a 2023 opening but has been delayed multiple times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, supply issues, and disputes with contractors. However, it is now nearing completion, and the results are finally starting to show.

The transformation of LAX is not only for the convenience of airport transportation but also part of the city's transportation infrastructure expansion in preparation for the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 LA Olympics.

Once this train is operational, the travel time between airport terminals will significantly decrease, and connections to the rental car center and subway will become much easier. Most importantly, the situation of wasting time in traffic congestion at the airport entrance will greatly improve.

For those who frequently use the airport, you may already know that the tracks and station buildings are becoming the new face of the airport. With operations set to begin next year, it seems worth looking forward to.