LAWA Community Connection - September 2025

September 2025

Dear Airport Community,

Welcome to the second issue of our Community Connection newsletter!

We are thrilled to have you with us and can't wait to hear your thoughts. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable as we strive to bring you the stories and updates that matter most to you.

Summer is a bustling time for airports, and our team is no exception. We're excited to support the Airfield & Terminal Modernization Project and share updates on our airport outreach programs. As we gear up for Aviation Career Day, holiday programs, street fairs, and other events, we hope you'll join us in celebrating these exciting moments. After all, who doesn't love a good party?

Please reach out to us at communityrelations@lawa.org.

Josh Francis

Director of Community Relations

Los Angeles World Airports

Aviation Enthusiasts Flock to LAX for Cranky Dorkfest

Hundreds of plane spotters and aviation enthusiasts gathered on LAX's airfield on September 13 as part of the annual Cranky Dorkfest event.

More than 500 aviation enthusiasts gathered on LAX's airfield on September 13 for Cranky Dorkfest, a one-of-a-kind event that unites plane spotters of all ages from around the world.

The day offered guests an up-close look at aircraft, behind-the-scenes views of LAX, and lively activities including a DJ, Randy’s Donuts, and opportunities to meet flight crews. Participants enjoyed taking photos, exploring aircraft displays, and connecting with aviation experts and fellow fans.

This year, Los Angeles World Airports partnered with Delta and American Airlines, who showcased aircraft on the ramp. Attendees were also welcomed by LAWA CEO John Ackerman, Airport Commissioner Val Velasco, and event founder Brett Snyder, known as the “Chief Airline Dork,” who raffled off backpacks and promotional items to lucky participants. Every guest went home with a special LAX hat, making the celebration both memorable and inspiring for aviation lovers everywhere.

To left, LAX Deputy Executive Director of External Affairs Vanessa Rodriguez, LAWA CEO John Ackerman and Airport Commissioner Val Velasco pose with the LAWA team. To right, Commissioner Velasco and CEO John Ackerman pose with the LAX prize backpack winners.

Cranky Dorkfest attendees enjoy airplane take-off and landing views and the opportunity to get onto American Airlines' special 737 AstroJet, and Delta's A350.

LAX Coastal Chamber’s Annual Meeting Highlights Airport Modernization Plans

LAWA's Chief Airport Development Officer Michael Christensen speaking at the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce's

Annual Membership Meeting.

On September 4, the LAX Coastal Chamber’s Annual Membership Meeting delivered exciting updates on the modernization of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Michael Christensen, LAWA’s Chief Airport Development Officer, took the stage at the Embassy Suites LAX South in El Segundo to present the latest progress on the Airfield & Terminal Modernization Project.

Christensen outlined ambitious plans to improve roadway access to the Central Terminal Area, with the goal of enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers. The event also featured remarks from Los Angeles City Councilmember Traci Park (District 11), who emphasized the significance of these upgrades for the local community.

Community Relations Member Charles Pannunzio discusses the ATMP project with a chamber member.

LAWA’s Community Relations team was on hand to distribute gift bags and engage with attendees, answering questions on a wide range of topics. The meeting not only provided valuable insights but also fostered a strong sense of community and collaboration.

To Left: Community Relations team member Charles Pannunzio speaking to a community member about the ATMP project

Around Town

The Community Relations Team has been non-stop since last month.

In late August, the LAWA Community Relations team and members of the Los Angeles Airport Police Youth Cadet program joined members of the LAX Kiwanis Club and 10 students from Westport Heights Elementary School for a morning of back-to-school shopping at Marshall's on La Tijera Boulevard. Each child was able to choose clothes and shoes up to $200, to learn how to manage their budget in addition to picking out fashionable school attire.

On September 4, Airport Commissioner Nicolas Roxborough, Van Nuys Airport (VNY) Manager Jacob Haik, VNY Chief of Airport Operations & Maintenance Christian Moreno, Director of External Affairs Jessica Baker, VNY Citizen Advisory Council members John Parker, Kan Mattoo, Naila Mendes and members the Community Relations team attended the Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber's State of the Valley luncheon.

On September 6, the Community Relations team led 15 Cub Scouts and their parents on a behind-the-scenes tour of Van Nuys Airport and a tour of the Los Angeles Fire Department Station 114.

The LAX Kiwanis Club held its 34th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach on September 8, raising funds for college scholarships for local high school students. More than 130 golfers participated, including LAWA Board of Airport Commissioners President Karim Webb, who spoke at the awards luncheon. The tournament raises over $100,000 annually, with scholarships awarded each spring. The organization also recently donated $30,000 for wildfire relief to Door of Hope in Pasadena.

The Westchester, El Segundo and Inglewood Rotary Clubs learned about LAX's Airfield & Terminal Modernization Project from Deputy Executive Director of Airports Development Program Emery Molnar and Chief Airport Planner Saly Heng at a meeting on September 10. Airport Commissioner and Past Rotary President Val Velasco moderated the meeting.

Hosting an event that you would like LAWA to participate in? Please email us at communityrelations@lawa.org and let us know.

Did you Know?

LAWA is a department of the City of Los Angeles and owns and operates two airports, LAX and VNY.

Kiwanis Club members and students from Westport Heights Elementary School celebrate a day of shopping and breakfast at the Renaissance Hotel.

National Political Anchor for Spectrum News Alex Cohen moderates as Los Angeles City Councilmembers L-R John Lee (CD-12), Monica Rodrguez (CD-7), Nithya Raman (CD-4), Bob Blumenfield (CD-3) and Adrin Nazarian (CD-2) answer questions regarding homelessness, redistricting and other pressing issues facing the City of Los Angeles at the State of the Valley luncheon.