Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) have chosen a development team led by LAX Community Partners, LLC (LACP), and an Environmental Technical and Expert Consultant team led by Ricondo & Associates, Inc. to deliver the work.

LAWA states that the teams’ experience with cargo development at aviation hubs, as well as the experience and qualifications of key staff members, were among the top considerations when identifying the project partners.

In 2022, LAX was ranked as the sixth busiest airport in the world and fifth in the US for air cargo tonnage, processing more than 2.7 million tonnes of cargo last year.

LAX currently has three cargo areas with 27 buildings, totalling approximately 2.6 million square feet, and roughly 3.5 million square feet of aircraft ramp area.

Ranging from 20 to 80 years old, many of these facilities are at the end of their useful life and not compatible with current industry standards.

Justin Erbacci, chief executive at LAWA, said: “In addition to being the busiest passenger origination and destination airport, LAX also is a key transportation centre for global cargo and a critical hub for domestic and international commerce.

“This project will provide more technically advanced and efficient cargo facilities and capabilities that will allow LAX to better power the economic vitality for the City of Los Angeles and greater Southern California region.”

Terri Mestas, chief development officer at LAWA, said: “LAX’s transformation is being thoughtfully advanced, providing best-in-class offerings to the travelling public and businesses that rely on our infrastructure every day. Our cargo facilities are no exception.

“Through our Cargo Modernization Program, we will provide our partners with facilities that move cargo efficiently while having positive impacts on the surrounding community, L.A.’s economy and LAX’s broader sustainability goals.”

David Rose, managing director of airport infrastructure at Realterm, the lead developer for LACP, said: “Our revolutionary development at LAX would be the first of its kind in cargo history and would become the leading example for all future air cargo facilities.

“Realterm prioritises flexibility, sustainability, technology and community in all aspects of its projects. It is known for successfully blending international best practices with its superior local engagement.”

(Picture above – diagram of existing LAX cargo facilities. Credit: Los Angeles World Airports)