Says Everything That Can Be Done Must Be Done To Save Airport

The Santa Monica Airport Association is not going to just roll over and allow the FAA and the city to close the airport in 2028.

Writing on the association's blog, Bill Worden says that the group plans to do everything in its power to prevent the airport from being closed, and the city taking over FBO operations at the facility.

"Although we have not yet seen the shameful document yet, the press releases from the City and the FAA seem to indicate that the City will also have the right as an exclusive proprietor to oust Atlantic Aviation and American Flyers provided the City can supply the services currently provided by these FBOs," Worden writes. "What does seem apparent is that we have ten years to convince the citizens of Santa Monica that the airport remains the best and highest use for the land. This will require a degree of enlightened self-interest seldom exhibited by citizens of any town these days. In the meantime, we have no choice but to carry this fight to the highest levels of our Federal Government."

Worden says that the association is prepared to take whatever steps are necessary to prevent the runway shortening, the ouster of the FBOs, and the eventual closure of the airport. "We're rolling up our sleeves-prepared to go mano a mano," Worden said.

FMI: www.santamonicaairport.info/