FAA: SMO cannot ban large-airplane operations

The FAA has concluded that the city of Santa Monica, Calif., “is currently in violation of its federal obligations,” a determination made as an initial res

By Matt Thurber • Editor-in-Chief

July 7, 2008

The FAA has concluded that the city of Santa Monica, Calif., “is currently in violation of its federal obligations,” a determination made as an initial response to an FAR Part 16 investigation into the city’s adoption of an ordinance on March 25 banning Category C and D aircraft from operating at Santa Monica Airport (SMO). The ordinance is currently on hold, following issuance of a preliminary injunction on May 16 that precludes the city from enforcing the ban on Category C and D aircraft.

Category C and D aircraft have approach speeds greater than 121 knots and up to 166 knots at maximum certified landing weight. According to airport manager Bob Trimborn, an average of 13 Category C and D aircraft land and take off at Santa Monica Airport each day, accounting for 7 percent of total operations. Types of airplanes affected by the ordinance range from Hawker 400s to Challengers, Learjets, Falcons and Gulfstreams.

The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background.

Become a Member

Already a member? Sign In