MULTI-AGENCY LAW ENFORCEMENT OPERATION ENHANCES SAFETY FOR TRAVELERS WHO USE GROUND TRANSPORTATION AT LAX

     (Los Angeles, California – August 1, 2014) A multi-agency law enforcement operation conducted on July 31st at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) resulted in five commercial ground transportation vehicles and drivers removed from service, and 32 citations issued to drivers for various vehicle code, administrative and mechanical violations.

     "This operation is part of a proactive measure by Los Angeles Airport Police and partner agencies to provide the traveling public with safe commercial transportation to and from LAX," said Los Angeles Airport Police Chief Patrick Gannon. "Air travelers rely heavily on commercial ground transportation services so it is important to ensure these providers are complying with all laws."

     Over 50 representatives from the Los Angeles Airport Police Commercial Enforcement and Motors Units, the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC), the LAX Regulatory Compliance and Standards Division, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) conducted inspections starting at 8:30 a.m. Inspections were conducted at three locations: LAX’s Limousine Holding Lot (intersection of Westchester Parkway and Jenny Street); LAX Parking Lot F (intersection of Avion Drive and Century Boulevard) and the Upper/Departures Level on the east end of Terminal 7.

     A total of 267 door-to-door shuttle vans, limousines and buses were inspected during the four-hour operation.

     The multi-agency team focused on proper driver and vehicle licenses, mechanical violations, transponders, PUC and airport operating permits, and proper commercial insurance.

     Thirteen drivers were issued Personal Service and Vehicle Code Citations for misdemeanor violations. Another nineteen drivers were cited for administrative violations, including serious mechanical problems, improper insurance, driving with an out-of-class license, bald tires 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.

     The Los Angeles Airport Police Division is the nation's premier aviation law enforcement agency with over 1,100 specially trained police officers, security officers, and civilian staff protecting Los Angeles International (LAX), LA/Ontario International (ONT), and Van Nuys (VNY) airports.

Limousine and Bus Holding Lot

Shuttle Van Holding Lot

Holding Lot Limousine and Bus

Photographs Courtesy APD Officer Darrius Lewis