Airport Panel Extends Time for Comment on LAX Plan

Under pressure from the City Council and others, the city’s Airport Commission voted unanimously Monday to extend the public comment period on Mayor James K. Hahn’s $9-billion plan to modernize Los Angeles International Airport.

The decision, which must be approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, would extend the period by 75 days -- it would end Nov. 7, rather than Aug. 25. Hahn had hoped to limit input to 45 days to meet an ambitious timetable.

But federal lawmakers and a majority of the City Council asked the mayor to extend the period, saying 45 days wasn’t enough time.

Hahn’s plan, which he says would emphasize security and safety over expansion, would dramatically rework the airport. The mayor released a 5,323-page environmental study for his plan last month, and hopes to have it to the council by next summer.

An initial hearing was held Monday night. Eight more are scheduled this month, including one tonight at the Ontario Airport Marriott. The commission also approved the addition of three hearing dates, which will be scheduled this fall.