About the LAWA Safety Summits
The LAWA Safety Summits are a cornerstone initiative of Los Angeles World Airports’ (LAWA) Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP), designed to prepare one of the nation’s most complex airport systems for the successful activation and long-term operation of the Automated People Mover (APM) [now LAX SkyLink] and Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) [now LAX Rental Car Center] facilities.
Launched in 2024, the Safety Summits were brought together under the leadership and vision of Harold Samms, Deputy Executive Director of the LAMP Performance Division. Recognizing that infrastructure alone does not ensure success, Samms established the summits as a platform to align people, processes, and partnerships, ensuring LAWA is operationally ready from day one and beyond.
A Vision Rooted in Operational Preparedness
From the beginning, the Safety Summits have been more than events, they are a strategic framework for readiness. Each summit builds upon the last, advancing LAWA’s ability to operate safely, communicate effectively, and coordinate seamlessly across agencies.
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2024 – “People & Placement”
The inaugural summit established the foundation by focusing on the human element of operations, defining roles, responsibilities, and resource placement across agencies. It brought together over 40 stakeholders to align on safety protocols and operational expectations for APM and ConRAC activation. -
2025 – “Communication & Coordination”
Building on that foundation, the second summit expanded the focus to how teams interact in real time. Through simulations, cross-agency panels, and structured exercises, participants refined communication protocols, strengthened coordination, and identified gaps critical to operational success. - 2026 – "Operational Preparedness" (May 6, 2026)
As LAWA enters its third Safety Summit, the focus continues to evolve, integrating lessons learned, strengthening systems, and ensuring sustained excellence as operations approach full implementation.
A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation
Each summit convenes a diverse network of stakeholders including LAWA departments, Airport Police (APD), LAPD, LAFD, LA Metro, contractors, and operational partners. Together, they engage in:
- Real-world scenario simulations and crisis response exercises
- Cross-functional discussions and panel sessions
- Policy and procedure refinement
- Development of communication and operational protocols
These summits are intentionally designed to break down silos, build shared understanding, and create a unified approach to safety and operations.
Driving Real Impact
The outcomes of the Safety Summits directly influence LAWA’s operational readiness. Insights gathered from each session are translated into actionable deliverables, including:
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for communications and incident response
- Defined roles and escalation protocols across agencies
- Emergency communication frameworks and templates
- Continuous training, simulations, and readiness exercises
This work ensures that LAWA is not only prepared for opening day, but equipped for sustained, high-performance operations in a dynamic and high-stakes environment.
Preparing for the Future of LAX
At its core, the LAWA Safety Summit series reflects a simple but powerful belief: Infrastructure succeeds when people are aligned, communication is clear, and coordination is seamless. Through Harold Samms’ vision and the collaboration of countless partners, the Safety Summits have become a model for how large-scale transportation systems prepare for complexity, ensuring that safety, service, and operational excellence remain at the forefront of LAWA’s transformation.