LAX Expansion Opposed By L.A.'s New Mayor

"Proponents and opponents of expansion plans at LAX squared off Saturday during three public hearings held to take comments on the plans. Those in favor of the proposed expansion said it would add no new runways but would make the airport more convenient for travelers. "The Air Line Pilots Association, representing more than 59,000 pilots at 49 airlines in the U.S. and Canada after reviewing the master plan proposal, supports the concept" said Jon Russell of the Air Line Pilots Association, International. "The plan addresses several of our safety concerns and improves efficiencies at LAX, making the airport a friendlier place to operate." Russell described conditions at LAX terminals as "antiquated," which "fail to meet airport, airline and passenger needs." Opponents, including neighbors of LAX and some elected officials, like incoming Mayor Jim Hahn, are against expanding the airport out of concern over increased traffic and pollution."