LaGuardia Airport AirTrain gets FAA green light
New York LaGuardia Airport’s proposed rail link extension is moving forward.
The Federal Aviation Administration approved the project in a preliminary environmental impact statement.
A final environmental approval is still needed and then it could begin work with an expected opening in 2025.
The $2 billion project plans to build an elevated train link connecting the airport with the 7-line subway and LIRR train station, which is just two kilometers away.
It would enable travelers to get to the airport from midtown Manhattan in about 30 minutes.
"We are one step closer to realizing the benefits of the project for the region. AirTrain LGA will provide millions of air travelers with a reliable, 30-minute trip from midtown Manhattan to the airport," said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole.
The AirTrain project is part of the $8 billion revamp of LaGuardia and funding had already been approved.
However it may still be in doubt as the Port Authority has suffered a major revenue downturn from reduced airport fees and public transport ticket sales due to the pandemic.
Public comments are invited and public hearings will take place next month to gauge the views of local residents.
There has been opposition voiced by local residents living close to the proposed route.
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said the project has slightly deviated from the initial route and wouldn’t require the compulsory purchase of any private property.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US editor
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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