Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has unveiled the first automated people mover (APM) train car that will give passengers an additional method for travelling to and from the airport.
The 2.25-mile electric APM system will reduce vehicle congestion and traffic around LAX and will provide a convenient connection to regional transportation, including the city’s Metro light rail system.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said:The Automated People Mover will be so much more than another way to get to LAX – it’s the piece of the puzzle that will curb the congestion that has been plaguing our airport for decades. As we welcome the first car that will whisk travellers to renovated terminals, parking structures, Metro rail, and a new rental car facility, it’s clear that a completely reimagined LAX is on the horizon.
The new APM train car is the first of 44 that will arrive at LAX. It was shipped to the airport’s Maintenance and Storage Facility site in June from the Alstom factory in Pittsburgh, PA.
Following this contract, LAX will be the first US airport to use Alstom’s INNOVIA 300 APM vehicles.
Justin Erbacci, Chief Executive Officer, Los Angles World Airports (LAWA) said:Innovation, sustainability and state-of-the-art technology are integral to our ongoing modernisation. These Automated People Mover train cars will set a high standard for environmentally sustainable transportation, having shells made of recyclable materials and achieving zero emissions. We look forward to seeing the cars in action when we begin testing them in 2023.
The APM will serve six stations, three of which will be inside the Central Terminal Area, while the other three will connect to new off-site parking facilities, regional light rail transportation and a Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility.
During peak hours, the trains will operate every two minutes, with a complete journey time of 10 minutes. The trains have been designed with wide doors for easy access with luggage and large windows for enjoying the views.
