FAA Determines Airport Revenues Can Pay for Nearly Completed Reuse of Excess Airfield Project
October 22, 2019 11:29 AM
SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Yesterday, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a decision confirming that aviation funds may be used to pay for the removal of excess pavements at Santa Monica Airport that are no longer needed for aircraft operations. The determination was made in response to a complaint filed jointly by National Business Aviation Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and General Aviation Manufacturers Association vs. City of Santa Monica. In their complaint the aviation groups challenged the use of airport funds for the runway shortening project completed in December 2017 as well as the Excess Pavement Removal Project, which is scheduled to be completed by November 8, 2019.
“This is good news that comes as we complete the removal of the excess pavement and hydroseed the areas that are no longer needed for the safe operation of aircraft to our now shortened runway,” said Mayor Gleam Davis. “The FAA determination clearly states that we are working in accordance with the Consent Decree and FAA rules, and the shortened runway ensures safe and proper aviation use until the airport closes in 2029.”
The FAA’s determination states that the “removal of the subject pavements, pavement pulverization and reuse, and the soil stabilization at SMO appear justified as an airport operating cost.” It also includes that “SMO met all applicable standards prior to the pavement removal and the airfield remains compliant with all applicable standards following completion of the project.”
The aviation groups filed the complaint on February 6, 2019. For more information, visit https://www.smgov.net/departments/airport/content.aspx?id=53687094979.
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Media Contact
Constance Farrell
Communications & Public Information Manager
Constance.Farrell@santamonica.gov