MULTI-AGENCY LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION AT LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ENHANCES PUBLIC SAFETY FOR USERS OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION
CONTACT:
Sgt. Ernest Cruz
(310) 877-2200
MULTI-AGENCY LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION AT LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ENHANCES PUBLIC SAFETY FOR USERS OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION
(Los Angeles, California – October 7, 2009) A multi-agency law enforcement operation
conducted today at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) resulted in two commercial ground transportation vehicles removed from service and 71 citations issued to drivers for administrative and mechanical violations.
The goal of the operation was to enhance the personal safety of the general public who use commercial ground transportation services. Travelers at airports, such as LAX, significantly rely on commercial ground transportation providers.
“This operation is part of a proactive approach by the Los Angeles Airport Police and our partner agencies to safeguard the traveling public by making sure that transportation companies comply with regulations,” said Los Angeles Airport Police Chief George Centeno.
Nearly 20 representatives from the Los Angeles Airport Police, California Public Utilities Commission (PUC), Los Angeles World Airports Landside Operations and the Airfield Permits Unit conducted their inspections at the airport’s limousine holding lot beginning at 8 a.m. A total of 115 door-to-door shuttles were inspected during the four-hour operation.
The multi-agency team focused on proper driver and vehicle licensing, PUC and airport operating permits and other law enforcement-related issues.
Ground Transportation Inspection Operation
Los Angeles Airport Police officers and inspectors concentrated on mechanical equipment, including braking systems, passenger restraints, headlights and other safety systems that are required to be in good working order.
Of the 115 vehicles inspected, two were impounded, one for operating without proper authorization and permits, and one for driving without a license.
LAX Landside Operations personnel removed 10 transponders (devices attached to commercial vehicles to monitor the number of times they access and traverse the airport’s Central Terminal Area roadways). Transportation providers pay a fee every time a vehicle completes a circuit of the CTA. If the transponder is not operating properly, it represents lost revenue for the airport.
A total of nine drivers were issued Personal Service Citations for misdemeanor violations, including serious mechanical problems, improper insurance, driving with an out-of-class license, and invalid or no PUC permits. Fines for these citations vary, and the drivers must show proof of correction before they can resume for-hire operation.
