It should come as no surprise that when a runway is shortened there is a price to pay in terms of safety. After shortening the runway from about 5,000 feet to 3,500 feet, the city of Santa Monica published statistics that show that the closed sections are indeed needed.
Shorter Runway at KSMO Increases Risk
Key Takeaways:
- After shortening the Santa Monica Airport (KSMO) runway, statistics from 2018 showed over 40 instances of aircraft, including two emergencies, using the closed portions, highlighting significant safety concerns.
- These runway deviations, primarily by piston singles, were recorded by air traffic control and surveillance, and reported as presumed FAR violations, suggesting the closed sections are still needed.
- The city's plan to permanently remove the inactive pavement is delayed due to budget overruns, even as the FAA has authorized KSMO's full closure in 2028 and jet traffic has significantly decreased.
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