LAX Proposes Tripling Ride-App Fees to Encourage New People Mover

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) officials are considering a significant increase in fees for ride-app companies like Uber and Lyft, potentially tripling the current cost for passengers. The proposal aims to incentivize travelers to use the upcoming Automated People Mover (APM), also known as Skylink, and alleviate traffic congestion around the airport terminals.

Fee Increase Details

Currently, ride-app companies pay a $4 fee to access LAX for passenger pickups and drop-offs. Under the proposed plan, the fee would rise to $12 for access to the central terminal area and $6 for pickups and drop-offs at Skylink. These increases would also apply to taxi and limousine services, which currently do not pay a fee for passenger drop-offs.

Rationale Behind the Proposal

Airport officials believe that increasing the fees will encourage passengers to opt for the APM, which is scheduled to open in the early summer. The train is expected to run 24/7, with cars arriving every two minutes during peak hours, and accommodate up to 200 passengers per car. LAX estimates the APM will transport 85 million passengers annually.

David Reich, deputy executive director for mobility strategy for Los Angeles World Airports, explained that distributing traffic across multiple locations will reduce gridlock, improve safety, and provide passengers with more transportation options. He noted that currently, 80,000 to 100,000 vehicles travel to the central terminal area daily, which is unsustainable.

Industry and Public Reaction

Uber has already begun mobilizing its customer base in opposition to the proposed fee increase, arguing that it would produce LAX rides the most expensive in the world. Several state Assembly members and Senators have also called for a delay in the vote, citing concerns about affordability and insufficient public consideration.

Travelers expressed concerns about the potential cost increase. One traveler, Jordan Conway, noted that rides were already expensive, and an additional increase would be “crazy.” Another, Brandon Bailey, stated the increase would impact his travel budget, as he flies into LAX monthly for perform.

Potential Implementation and Further Discussion

LAWA officials have indicated a willingness to reconsider the timing of the fee implementation, potentially delaying it until after the APM is operational. The board is also discussing limiting ride-app pickups at the central terminal area to 30%, with 70% occurring at Skylink, and reversing those percentages for drop-offs.

The proposed fee increase would be the first at LAX in 10 years, bringing fees in line with other major airports such as Boston, Seattle, and San Francisco International Airport, where ride-app companies are already charged $6 for access.

Looking Ahead

The LAX board is expected to vote on the proposal on Tuesday morning. The decision will likely have a significant impact on the cost of transportation to and from the airport and could influence passenger behavior as the Automated People Mover prepares to open.