Santa Monica residents argue historic airport is 'critical' for public safety

Supporters of the Santa Monica Airport, a small airfield that first opened in 1923, are arguing against its proposed closure in 2028, reports Jocelyn Fiset for KTLA. "Currently, the airport mainly serves private flights and smaller aircraft and acts as a “reliever airport” for the L.A. area. It also has art spaces, event venues and offices on the property, including the 35,000-square foot Barker Hangar."

Residents who oppose the closure say the airport is "a critical asset for our public safety" that could serve as a base of operations in the case of emergencies such as wildfires. "The airport itself sits on 192 acres of land and is roughly two miles from the Pacific Ocean, making up about 3.5% of Santa Monica’s total land area."

The city plans to convert the airport site to multiple uses including public parks, athletic fields and other civic amenities following a public input process.