Land Use Study at California Airport Raises Alarm in GA Community

Purpose of the research, according to Los Angeles County, is to determine alternate uses for Whiteman Airport’s 184 acres.

Meg Godlewski

Monday, October 28, 2024 at 04:00 PM ET

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Edited By: tccjeremy

Whiteman Airport [Courtesy: Los Angeles County Public Works]

Key Takeaways:

Los Angeles County approved a $1.9 million study to explore alternative uses for Whiteman Airport, drawing strong opposition from the aviation community.
Proponents for the airport's closure cite safety concerns due to recent fatal accidents in the adjacent residential neighborhood.
Opponents highlight the airport's economic benefits, supporting 412 direct jobs, and argue the study wastes taxpayer money, citing existing federal agreements that imply perpetual operation.
The FAA indicates that land acquired with federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants carries perpetual obligations, and LA County has received such grants, committing the airport to remain open for at least 20 years from the most recent grant in 2021.

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The aviation community in Southern California is raising the alarm over a decision made by Los Angeles County officials to request an expanded land use study for the land that is currently Whiteman Airport (KWHP).

The economic impact and land use study was given the green light at the county’s board of supervisors meeting on October 22. The purpose of the research, according to the county, is to determine alternate uses for the airport’s 184 acres. The facility is located in the city of Pacoima, 19 miles north of Los Angeles International (KLAX). Whiteman Airport is one of five owned by Los Angeles County.