The Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners (BOAC) has officially passed a measure to drastically limit curbside access at terminal buildings. The move aims to eliminate “horseshoe” gridlock and encourage riders to use the automated people mover, SkyLink.
In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, airport officials greenlit a plan that will reshape the passenger experience at one of the world’s busiest airports.
The 70/30 Passenger Split
The approved measure codifies a strict “passenger limitation” strategy to manage terminal congestion:
- Pickups: Direct terminal curb pickups are now capped at just 30% of total rideshare and taxi volume. The remaining 70% of passengers must now take the SkyLink train to the new Ground Transportation Center (GTC) or the existing LAX-it lot to meet their drivers.
- Drop-offs: The ratio is flipped for departures, with a 70% cap for terminal curbs and 30% of passengers required to be dropped off at remote hubs to board the train into the terminal area.
LAWA estimates this shift, combined with the SkyLink train’s capacity, will remove over 3,200 daily shuttle trips and slash central terminal congestion by up to 30%.
The Cost of Curb Access
To enforce these caps, the board approved a “pay-to-play” fee structure that makes terminal access a premium luxury.
- The “Remote” Fee ($6): Passengers using the SkyLink to meet their ride at a transit hub will see the current $4 fee rise to $6.
- The “Terminal” Fee ($12): Passengers who insist on being picked up or dropped off directly at the terminal curb (within the 30%/70% allowance) will be charged a $12 surcharge, triple the current rate.
Timeline for Implementation
The rollout of these changes follows a two-stage approach starting this year. By April 2026, a baseline fee of $6 for all airport pickups and drop-offs is expected to take effect, representing an initial increase from current rates.
The more drastic measures (including the full $12 terminal curb fee and the strict 30% limit on curbside pickups) will be strictly enforced the moment the SkyLink train officially opens to the public, which is currently targeted for early summer 2026.