LA Metro Connects LAX to Rail Network at Last
Metro opens LAX rail station on June 6, connecting 75 million annual passengers to transit
LAX Gets Direct Rail Link to Metro System
Los Angeles travelers can now ride Metro trains directly to LAX after the transit agency opened its LAX/Metro Transit Center Station on June 6. The new station ends decades without rail service to one of the world's busiest airports, which handles 75 million passengers annually. Transit officials said the connection will serve residents commuting to airport jobs and travelers heading to flights, though they didn't specify which Metro lines serve the station or release ridership projections.
The station opening comes as Los Angeles prepares to host major international events that'll bring millions of visitors to the region. Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins and Board Chair Kathryn Barger have emphasized the system's role in supporting the FIFA World Cup 2026, Super Bowl LXI in February 2027, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Officials said the rail connection reduces reliance on cars and taxis for airport access, though specific details about travel times from various Metro stations weren't available.
The project represents years of planning to connect LAX to Metro's rail network, though officials didn't disclose construction costs or the exact timeline from groundbreaking to completion. Los Angeles joins other major U.S. cities with direct airport rail service, including San Francisco's BART connection to SFO that opened in 2003, Washington Metro's Silver Line to Dulles that launched in 2022, and Chicago's Blue Line to O'Hare that's operated since 1984. Atlanta's MARTA has served Hartsfield-Jackson Airport since 1988.
Metro officials said the station is now operational but didn't provide details about service frequency or hours of operation. The agency hasn't released information about whether additional airport connections are planned or how the station integrates with LAX's existing shuttle system. Officials said they'll continue expanding the Metro network to improve regional connectivity, though specific future projects weren't outlined in the opening announcement.
Airport employees and travelers can now use the station to avoid freeway traffic when commuting to LAX or catching flights. The connection provides an alternative to driving and parking at the airport, which officials said supports the region's sustainability goals. Riders can check Moovit for real-time Metro schedules and trip planning to the new LAX station.
