CHICK CALLS FOR IMPROVING FLYAWAY.

Byline: Rick Orlov Daily News Staff Writer

With the battle raging over the impact of expanding Los Angeles International Airport, City Councilwoman Laura Chick joined the effort Tuesday for major improvements to the Van Nuys Flyaway to ease traffic congestion.

Chick, in a motion introduced to the council, asked the city Department of Airports to report on ways to increase service at the Van Nuys Flyaway facilities to turn it into a satellite terminal for LAX.

``This is an idea that's been brewing in the San Fernando Valley for some time now,'' Chick said. ``I think it makes a lot of sense.''

Chick said the idea was suggested to her by the San Fernando Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Valley Industry and Commerce Association.

Chick said the idea is modeled after similar projects in Tokyo, London and Paris and could be expanded to include baggage service, additional parking, shuttle service and rental-car facilities.

VICA Chairman Steve Lew said he believes the proposal could help the Valley economy.

``This satellite terminal will mean more jobs, more tourists and ultimately more dollars for the Valley - not to mention more convenience for the entire city of Los Angeles,'' Lew said.