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

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

Whiteman Airport [Courtesy: Los Angeles County Public Works]

Key Takeaways:

Los Angeles County has approved a $1.9 million study to determine alternative uses for Whiteman Airport, despite objections from the aviation community.
Proponents for the airport's closure cite safety concerns due to recent high-profile accidents, including a fatal crash and another involving a train.
Opponents argue against closure due to the airport's economic impact (412 direct jobs) and contend that "perpetual obligations" to the FAA from past federal grants mandate it remain open, though the FAA specifies a 20-year obligation from the most recent grant (2021).

See a mistake? Contact us.

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.