The Taxiway D Extension project at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) represents a collaborative effort between Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and RS&H to transform one of the world’s busiest airfields by enhancing operational efficiency and supporting the airport’s expansion plans. As the prime consultant and engineer of record, RS&H designed this critical extension, which adds approximately 2,300 feet of a new 75-foot-wide taxiway with 30-foot shoulders, resulting in dual parallel taxiways on the north airfield. This project is a key component of LAWA’s vision to modernize the north airfield by aligning it with LAWA’s broader modernization efforts and improving its capability to accommodate the world’s largest aircraft.
Improving the efficiency and safety of aircraft movement on the ground was critical for LAX to meet travel demands and enhance passenger experience and airport efficiency at one of the world’s busiest and constrained airports. This extension implements dual parallel taxiways, which are designated paths for aircraft to travel between runways and terminals. This extension includes two connector taxiways, V and W, linking Taxiway D and Taxiway E, as well as a connector taxilane, D14, connecting Taxiway D to an aircraft parking apron. Each taxiway and taxilane is fully illuminated with edge and centerline lights.
RS&H remains dedicated to driving innovative solutions that consider the evolving standards of the FAA. By maintaining an integrated approach, the team identified facilities unaffected by upcoming FAA design changes, minimizing disruptions and future-proofing the airport’s infrastructure. With this knowledge, RS&H revised the Taxiway P and Taxiway D intersection during the construction of Taxiway P and revised the alignment of Taxiway D to eliminate potential future impacts. Through collaboration, innovation, and careful planning, this endeavor has not only improved operational efficiency but has also enhanced the experience for millions of passengers traveling through LAX.