February 4th 'Protest' Promises Disruptions Of Law-Abiding Aero-Businesses

The foes of aviation surrounding Santa Monica are making threats to further disrupt aviation business at the Santa Monica airport. Though quite disorganized and fighting amongst themselves, publicly, they vow that a February 4th protest targeting Atlantic Aviation, in particular, will take place.

Using faulty rhetoric and some twisted facts, what has been determined to be a vocal minority of the SMO community is planning to disrupt airport operations by occupying the right of way near the largest airport FBO and targeting both the FBO and its clientele (tortious interference, anyone?).

But, all is not right in NIMBYville... the internal infighting among the foes of the airport has become quite public and quite vicious. Anti-airport NIMBYs are accusing the city government of failing to act aggressively enough against the airport and the FAA of waging an illegal battle to keep the airport open.

In the meantime, some anti-airport foes are accusing others, within their own ranks, of 'hijacking' their efforts to protest the airport operations and there seems little love lost amongst the anti-aero zealots. 'Organizations' opposing the airport such as Sunset Park Anti-Airport, No Jets, SMO Future, Friends of Sunset Park, CRAAP (who makes up these names?), Airport2Park, and others, are reportedly being invited or are already a part of the protest. 

In light of the vehemence of those opposing the airport, and the aggressive invective; pro-airport parties, businesses and pilots hope that whatever protest(s) may occur will be operated in accordance with the law, not disturb the legal rights of airport operators and users, and be non-violent.

ANN will keep you informed...

FMI: www.santamonicaairport.info/, https://www.facebook.com/SantaMonicaAirportAssociation/, www.santamonicaairport.com/friends