Commercial Development Group

Mission Statement

The Commercial Development Group at Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) is dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth and enhancing the passenger experience through state-of-the-art commercial strategies, partnerships, and development opportunities. We strive to maximize the value of airport assets, support local businesses, and safeguard our commercial ventures to reflect the diversity and dynamism of the City of Los Angeles. Our commitment to excellence drives us to deliver world-class services and facilities that contribute to LAWA’s mission of connecting people, places, and cultures globally.

Vision

To be a global leader in airport commercial development; creating vibrant, innovative spaces that enhance the travel experience for our guests and promote economic vitality for the City. We envision a future where our commercial initiatives set the standard for excellence, reflecting the cultural richness and economic vitality of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Van Nuys Airport (VNY), and Palmdale. By optimizing the allocation and utilization of LAWA’s real estate, we will ensure maximum value and benefit for our passengers, our stakeholders, and our citizens.

Concession & Terminals Maintenance

Oversees all commercial concession agreements, including retail, food & beverage, and service providers at LAX. Focuses on inspecting tenant facilities for compliance with LAWA rules and regulations, investigates repairs, tracks maintenance performance, and ensures adherence to Fire Life Safety requirements and deadlines.

Property Services

Responsible for the strategic management, leasing, and development of both airfield and non-airfield properties at LAX. This group supports LAWA’s long-term commercial goals by facilitating new development opportunities and maximizing the value of City-owned land through competitive processes and lease negotiations.

Terminals Leasing

Responsible for managing occupancy agreements and relationships with aeronautical and government tenants operating at LAX. Ensures compliance with lease terms, optimizes space utilization, and supports the airport’s operational needs.

Property Acquisitions

The objective of Strategic Commercial Management is to maximize revenue and reduce expenses through innovative and efficient operations. Strategic Commercial Management provides property acquisition services, contract management, contract administration, and compliance for landside agreements and ongoing capital improvement programs.

Administration

Provides administrative and operational support for LAWA’s commercial initiatives, with an emphasis on process efficiency, transparency, and regulatory compliance. Facilitates collaboration across divisions, manages documentation workflows, and supports customer service functions to ensure high-quality outcomes aligned with LAWA’s strategic goals.

Space Planning

Safeguarding the efficient and effective use of employee spaces in support of LAWA’s operational objectives.

Van Nuys Airport and Palmdale Landholdings

Van Nuys Airport (VNY) is a key part of the Southern California airport system, covering 730 acres in the San Fernando Valley. It caters to non-commercial air travel, serving private, corporate, and government aviation needs. VNY hosts over 200 aviation-related businesses and is one of the busiest general aviation airports globally. 

Palmdale Landholdings (PMD) spans 17,500 acres in the Antelope Valley, 67 miles from Downtown Los Angeles. The developed area, known as Site 9, is a 155-acre industrial complex with access to US Air Force Plant 42. The rest of the land is mainly agricultural, recreational, and industrial, with several businesses leasing property for aviation and other uses