LISA WAHLA HOWARD, Valley Press Staff Writer
January 25, 2006
SCAG pushes for Palmdale Airport traffic
The push for a regionalized air transit system continues, with a Southern California government group calling for increased air traffic at Palmdale and Ontario airports. Mark Pisano, executive director of the Southern California Association of Governments, wants to see traffic - vehicle and airplane - pushed away from LAX.
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The leader of the six-county regional group is advocating construction of a high-speed transit system to the two regional airports. Pisano spoke this week to the Board of Airport Commissioners for Los Angeles World Airports, the agency that operates L.A. International, Palmdale, Ontario and Van Nuys airports. "A system of flyaway and HOV land improvements will help us meet some of the short-term airport access challenges while the long-term approach is developed," Pisano said. "Ultimately, connecting our airports with a high-speed transportation system will provide passengers with viable alternatives to LAX and help disperse projected airport demand throughout the region."
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Part of the settlement calls for LAWA to work with SCAG, the FAA, airport operators and local governments to develop a plan to spread out air traffic. "We welcome the opportunity to work with LAWA to develop a truly regional airport system that minimizes growing pressures on LAX and maximizes us of Southern California's airport assets," Pisano said.
 
As part of the plan, SCAG recommends LAWA consider its four airports as one regional airport, an idea also promoted by Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich. Last week, the Board of Supervisors approved a motion by Antonovich that urges LAWA to consider a series of suggestions meant to encourage increased traffic at Palmdale.
 
Antonovich, whose 5th District includes the Antelope Valley, wants to see LAWA reduce or eliminate taxes and fees for airlines venturing into the terminal. He also hopes to see some sort of free shuttle transportation from the Van Nuys Park-and-Ride and a transportation system to connect the airport with the Palmdale Transportation Center. In addition, Antonovich is pushing for advance ticket purchase for the airlines and improvements at the airport to make it more efficient for cargo transport.
 
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