Santa Monica Airport

Pilots of a Cirrus SR20 Carbon single engine airplane (N333YY) taxiing after arrival at Santa Monica Airport.

Santa Monica Airport (ICAO: KSMO) is a general aviation airport serving FBOs, flight schools and hobbyists. Its location near residential areas and it's short runway have caused controversy and led to efforts to close the airport. The FAA announced the airport will close in 2028 to be converted into a public park. The airport has a rich history, having been used for aviation purposes since 1917 where it was home to the Douglas Aircraft Corporation. In the early days of aviation, the airport served as a hub for aircraft manufacturing and testing. Today, the airport serves as a base for general aviation and corporate flights, with private jets and smaller aircraft making up the majority of the traffic. The airport has faced significant opposition from nearby residents due to noise, pollution, and safety concerns, and there have been ongoing efforts to reduce or eliminate flights at the airport. Despite these controversies, Santa Monica Airport remains an important part of the aviation landscape in Southern California.

There is currently a shortage of pilots in America, with many airlines struggling to find enough qualified candidates to meet demand. Factors contributing to the shortage include retirement of experienced pilots, cost of training, and industry growth causing wages to increase. Many regional airlines are struggling to find Captains causing flight cancellations and delays.