As thousands of FIFA World Cup visitors arrive at Los Angeles International Airport, the long-awaited SkyLink Automated People Mover remains unfinished and has yet to carry its first passengers. Originally slated to open in 2023, the $3.34-billion elevated train has been delayed by technical issues, construction setbacks, and ongoing disputes between Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and its contractor, LAX Integrated Express Solutions (LINXS).

Los Angles Times reports that the contractor has blamed airport-related “blockers,” including landscaping work, approval delays, and conflicts with other projects, while LAWA has emphasized extensive safety testing requirements. Officials say the system must complete 30 consecutive days of flawless operation before opening, a milestone it has not yet reached, with current projections pointing to early October. Jacob Wasserman, UCLA transportation researcher, said the project ultimately “offers an alternative,” noting, “You can choose to avoid the traffic.” Experts say the delays highlight broader challenges in delivering large-scale transit infrastructure at LAX, even as officials look to future mega-events like the Olympics.