LAX Train Sparks Mayoral Fight

A video showing electrical explosions along the LAX SkyLink tracks has intensified the battle between Mayor Karen Bass and challenger Nithya Raman. The footage, captured in late September, aligns with recent reports of technical failures on the automated people mover.

The train system is designed to link LAX terminals with Metro stations. It was originally scheduled to open in 2023. The target date has since moved to February 2027. An LA Times report states the project has exceeded its budget by $1.4 billion.

Raman linked the delays to Bass's leadership. She cited a dispute between the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and Los Angeles World Airports regarding solar power usage for the train.

“The opening keeps getting moved back, the opening keeps getting moved back, and Angelenos have every right to doubt the next date they are given,” Raman said. She added, “If her own departments can’t resolve a disagreement holding up a multi-billion dollar project .. Where is the Mayor? She is once again missing in action.”

Bass noted that the project was approved and launched under the previous administration. She attributed current delays to safety concerns and disputes among private contractors. Bass stated she anticipates safety certification by January 1. She said one contractor faces severe financial penalties if that deadline is missed.

The contractor LINXS reported three arc flashes on the tracks on September 23 and September 25. A LAWA fact sheet described arc flashes as common during the testing phase. The agency confirmed the problem areas were repaired. The train must complete 30 consecutive days of successful testing to proceed with safety certification.

Marshal McClain, president of the LAX police union, voiced concerns about the airport's management. “We don't feel like the management of the airport is taking enough account of the safety of the operation of the SkyLink,” McClain said. The contractor has also sued the city of Los Angeles.