Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) unveiled three of the 18 new international gates as well as the north concourse at LAX on March 6. Nine of the gates are able to accommodate new larger, next-generation aircraft, such as the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental and the Airbus A-380 super jumbo jets. All 18 gates will use state-of-the-art, laser-based, visual guidance docking systems. Computerized passenger boarding bridges automate the operations between the terminal and aircraft doors. LAWA is installing three passenger boarding bridges at all of its new A-380-compatible gates, which will greatly improve the amount of time to load and unload an aircraft.
At the boarding gates, electrical outlets and USB ports for charging personal electronic equipment, such as cell phones, tablets and laptops, are installed at each bank of seats. Free Wi-Fi service — already accessible throughout LAX terminals — is also available.
“We’re investing in LAX because it isn’t just a travel hub, it’s the gateway to the Pacific Rim and a central driver of our regional economy,” said Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. www.la-next.com
