Airport News Archive

April 15, 2019

City of Santa Barbara Mayor Cathy Murillo will be on hand to send off the first passengers on Contour Airlines new direct service to the California state capital city, Sacramento. “I was pleased to announce the new direct service with State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson in January, and I wouldn’t miss celebrating this first flight.” To mark the occasion, the departing flight will receive the first Fire Department water cannon salute in more than seven years, since the start of the California drought. “I can’t think of a more fitting tribute to this new service,” said Mayor Murillo.

At a press conference held on Thursday, January 31, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson and Santa Barbara Mayor Cathy Murillo, along with Contour Airlines CEO Matt Chaifetz, announced that the premium, low-fare airline would begin daily nonstop service to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) starting April 16, 2019. Booking will be available February 1, 2019.

January 28, 2019 Delta is making the ‘American Riviera’ more accessible than ever with the launch of three daily year-round flights from Salt Lake City International Airport to Santa Barbara Airport, a new destination on Delta’s route map, on Aug. 12, 2019.

Santa Barbara Airport is feeling grateful for a 10-year record in passenger growth and a strong trajectory for 2019.

Santa Barbara, CA (December 20, 2018) — ‘Tis the season to be jolly as Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) continues to receive promising passenger numbers, underscoring a consistent trend that more travelers are taking advantage of new air service and direct flight destinations at the “depart differently” airport.

Santa Barbara Airport was recently gifted an original oil painting created by artists who participate in PathPoint’s community integration services. The mural was given in appreciation for providing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The large-scale painting, titled “Santa Barbara Airport” depicts the main terminal, air traffic control tower, runway and planes, placed against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Created over a four-month period, Allan Kotler and Carlos Tunberg, were the lead painters, with fine detail work completed by Carey Rosselle, Ramiro Ceja, Elena Zumbach, and Cherie Gallagher. PathPoint staff members, Alejandra Mendoza, Gil Addison, and Beth Wickholm, helped sketch the outline and assisted individuals with the use of adaptive painting techniques.

As the holidays approach and carrier loads enjoy an uptick, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is continuing its reputation for stress-free, seamless travel for all holiday travelers. With three new carriers and as many new direct destinations, the seasonal energy will be particularly abundant this year. As always, SBA encourages passengers to arrive earlier in anticipation of the bustle.

Contour Airlines inaugural service from Oakland International Airport is scheduled to land at Santa Barbara Airport at 11:10 am tomorrow, Tuesday, October 16. Contour CEO Matt Chaifetz will arrive with the first flight of passengers from the Bay Area’s second largest and fastest growing airport. Representatives from the City will be on hand to greet and welcome these passengers to Santa Barbara. On Thursday, Contour will launch a second route from SBA with its inaugural departing flight to Las Vegas, Nevada. The carrier will serve Santa Barbara with daily service to Oakland and five times weekly service to Las Vegas.

Today, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) announces that Contour Airlines will begin service from the “depart differently” airport starting on October 16, 2018. The regional carrier will offer daily nonstop flights to Oakland (OAK) and service to Las Vegas (LAS) in its 30-passenger ERJ-135 jet aircraft.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) announces Frontier Airlines will commence direct service to Denver, Colorado (DEN) from the “depart differently” airport starting on August 21, 2018. Booking is available now with roundtrip fares currently starting at $120, plus fees.

Santa Barbara, CA - August 13, 2018 — Today, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) announces Sun Country Airlines will begin Minneapolis/St.Paul, Minnesota service from the “depart differently” airport starting on August 16, 2018. Booking is available now with roundtrip fares currently starting at $196.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Western Pacific Region awarded Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) its 2018 Outstanding Airport Award in a ceremony last week in Los Angeles. The honor recognizes the “exemplary work done by the City of Santa Barbara Airport Department” in proactively completing important safety projects as well as outstanding management of federal grant funding provided by the agency. The FAA also praised SBA’s cooperative relationship with their office in Los Angeles. “The fact that the FAA recognized Santa Barbara, among the dozens of airports they serve in the West, is a testament to the commitment of our engineers and operations staff,” said Airport Director, Hazel Johns.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) will honor veterans this Memorial Day weekend by placing wreaths at the two distinctive World War II Memorials in honor of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

In a surprise announcement, Sun Country Airlines announced today that it will begin service from Santa Barbara to Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP) on August 16, 2018. This comes only one day after Frontier Airlines announced its entrance to Santa Barbara with service to Denver International Airport (DEN) on August 16. Like Frontier, Sun Country is known as an Ultra-Low Cost Carrier (ULCC) offering a smorgasbord of ‘pay as you use’ amenities.

On Tuesday, May 1, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) will announce a new low cost carrier that will be expanding A-320 Airbus service from the “depart differently” airport starting August 21. As part of the press conference, the revealed carrier will release competitive fares to its destination city, which is currently being serviced via SBA.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) will begin work April 8 on the 7/25 runway rehabilitation project, which will remove the existing grooved surface, fill pavement cracks and add a new asphalt surface on the 6,052-foot main runway. The last time the main runway was resurfaced was in 2006.

SANTA BARBARA, CA – March 5, 2018 ­-- Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) has been acknowledged with prestigious service awards from two major airline carriers.United Airlines announced Santa Barbara’s “depart differently” airport as one of three winners of the 2017 Quality First Award, for earning the highest points in its respective tier for combine performance across a variety of service markers. “Congratulations to SBA on this exceptional achievement. Your commitment to our customers and United’s overall operational successes is greatly appreciated,” United Airlines Operation leadership team.

January 22, 2018 Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) announced that the TSA PreCheck ® IndentoGo mobile enrollment unit will be available in Santa Barbara to offer admission to the federal TSA Pre?® program. Once approved, the program grants an airline passenger expedited screening on domestic flights.

Flight operations remain normal at Santa Barbara Airport. Travelers also can follow the Airport on Facebook and Twitter for updates, as well as find schedules for all carriers on flysba.com.

At this hour, Santa Barbara Airport and the airspace surrounding Santa Barbara remains OPEN.

12/11/2017 While so much attention has been focused on the impacts of the Thomas fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, there’s no news at Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), where operations have been normal. Many members of the community have, however, wondered if the smoke and nearby fire activity have impacted airport operations.

Santa Barbara Airport Prepares for a Busy Thanksgiving Holiday

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is planning for a bustling Thanksgiving holiday with an anticipated increase in travelers by nearly 15% over last year. Traveler demand for flights continues to grow at SBA, and in response, all three of the Airport’s commercial airlines are flying larger aircraft this year.

Santa Barbara, CA (August 25, 2017)

Starting on Sunday, August 27, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) officially announces that Alaska Airlines will begin 737 direct flight service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).The flight departs daily from Santa Barbara's "easy come, easy go" airport

SANTA BARBARA, CA – May 26, 2017 Today the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) placed wreaths at the two distinctive World War II Memorials in honor of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

The Santa Barbara Airport will host a Career Day on May 24 to celebrate twenty years as Isla Vista Elementary School’s Adopt-A-School Program partner. Six hundred elementary students will have opportunities to interact with aviation professionals from 10am-2pm at Isla Vista. The goal is to introduce students to the way science, technology, engineering and math can be utilized in the course of their daily work and to excite them about potential STEM careers of the future.

At a meeting of the Santa Barbara City Council today, UCSB Professor of Economics Peter Rupert will present a recently completed study of the community benefit created by Santa Barbara Airport - quantified in jobs and economic vitality for the residents and businesses of the greater Goleta/Santa Barbara area.

SANTA BARBARA, CA – March 22, 2017

As evidence of the strong demand for convenient air service from Santa Barbara, two of the Airport’s commercial airlines, United Airlines and American Airlines, have announced dramatic increases in available seats departing from Santa Barbara Airport this year. Overall, Santa Barbara expects to increase passenger capacity in 2017 by more than 10% - over an already banner year in 2016.

At approximately 7:30am the Santa Barbara Airport’s main air carrier and general aviation runways were re-opened to all aircraft as Airport Department staff worked through the early morning hours to clear debris from runways 7/25 and 15R/15L.

As media stories abound of travelers’ frustrations at crowded airports, Santa Barbara Airport looks like a familiar oasis to Central Coast residents traveling this season. Even with a significant increase in travelers this week, Airport officials expect a steady and efficient processing of passengers from curbside to gate-side. The Airport expects Friday, December 23 to be the busiest day with about 2,000 arriving and departing passengers, and Monday – Tuesday, December 26-27 to be busy as well. With so many local social media enthusiasts, there’s also been an uptick in residents who “check in” on Facebook every day and leave ratings and comments, both accolades and suggestions (Find our Facebook page here).

The holiday spirit is alive and well at the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA).

The Fifth Annual Songs of the Season will take place on Wednesday, December 14 from 11:30am-5:30pm at the airline terminal. The public is invited to attend this year’s event, featuring the exceptionally talented San Marcos High School Madrigal Singers and A Cappella Choir; Santa Barbara High School Madrigal Singers; The Young Singers Club and Opera soloist, Peter Kravchuk.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is anticipating its busiest Thanksgiving holiday week since 2011. Passenger numbers have been on the increase since June, and the month of November is solidly on track to beat last year’s numbers. The Airport’s three commercial air carriers –Alaska, American, and United - have been filling up seats for travel in and out of Santa Barbara this week.

The departure gates at Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) are busy with activity as the result of a strong increase in passengers over recent months. New nonstop service to Dallas beginning in June boosted American Airlines passenger numbers by 16% in June through September over the same period last year. The passenger increases were not limited to American, both United and Alaska Airlines flew more passengers during the same period compared to the year prior.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is pleased to announce that Alaska Airlines will start flying brand-new Embraer EMB 175 aircraft to Seattle and Portland starting October 5. The EMB 175 is replacing the 70-seat Bombardier CRJ 700 aircraft flown by Alaska system-wide, including on the popular Seattle and Portland routes.

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) Triennial Full-Scale Disaster Drill exercise will take place this Tuesday, September 20, 2016, between 9:00am and 10:30am on the northwest side of the main runways 7/25. The purpose of the drill is for local mutual aid partners and emergency response organizations to gain practice and preparedness for a response in the event of a major aircraft disaster. This live exercise will be conducted in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration requirements.

The City of Santa Barbara’s “new” airport terminal is set to reach an important milestone. The 72,000 square foot terminal opened to great fanfare on August 17, 2011. Since then, nearly 3.4 million passengers have traveled through its gates. Santa Barbara Airport is marking the occasion by thanking passengers as they exit the security checkpoint area. As much of a celebration of the new terminal, Passenger Appreciation Day acknowledges the loyalty of Santa Barbara Airport passengers and the upward growth trend in 2016.

The 4th of July holiday is the height of the busy travel season at Santa Barbara Airport (SBA). This year, the addition of daily direct service on American Airlines to Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) jumpstarted the summer season on June 2. Last July, nearly 29,000 travelers departed to one of SBA’s six direct destinations. The number of travelers this July is expected to grow with near-capacity bookings on the Dallas flight, as well as a second daily departure with Alaska Airlines to Seattle.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is pleased to announce that American Airlines will launch new nonstop, daily air service from Santa Barbara to Dallas, Texas beginning on Thursday, June 2.

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), in honor of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces, will again place wreaths at the two distinctive World War II Memorials located at the Airport.

The Wings of Freedom Tour of the WWII vintage B17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, B-25 Mitchell and North American P-51 Mustang will arrive at the Santa Barbara Airport on May 13th at 2pm through May 15th at 5pm.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is pleased to announce the arrival of Lokee the Therapy Dog, a certified Grand Champion Keeshond, owned and handled by Larry Reiche. Since March Larry and Lokee have been visiting the Airport to engage with the traveling public.

American Airlines (AA) will begin non-stop service to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) starting June 2. The reinstatement of service to Dallas represents ongoing efforts by the Santa Barbara Airport to bring back the popular destination. American Airlines previously flew the SBA-DFW route from 1983 to 1993 and from 2004 to 2009.

The Santa Barbara Airport is reporting that at approximately 5:41 p.m. on February 8th a single engine Beechcraft Bonanza, N113TM took off from runway 25 and experienced engine failure at 300 feet above therunway. The pilot landed the plane in the Goleta Slough basin, experienced minor injuries, and was transported to Cottage Hospital.

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is pleased to announce a partnership with the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) in a mutual effort to encourage travelers from all over the world to attend this major cultural event February 3-13, 2016.

SANTA BARBARA, CA – December 21, 2015

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) wishes everyone a Happy Holiday Season! We are grateful for the opportunity to serve visitors from all over the world this holiday and want to make sure flight arrivals and departures via SBA are an easy and pleasant experience.

The Fourth Annual Songs of the Season is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, December 16 from 2:30pm-4:30pm at the Airline Terminal. The public is invited to attend this year’s event, featuring the exceptionally talented San Marcos High School Madrigal Singers and A Cappella Choir; Santa Barbara High School Madrigal Singers; The Young Singers Club and Opera soloist, Peter Kravchuk.

The Santa Barbara Airport, (SBA) gateway to the American Riviera, welcomes airline passengers from all over the region this Thanksgiving season. Airport officials are suggesting that passengers arrive early in order to make their holiday travel an easy one. Alaska, American and United Airlines report that flights will depart 90-95% full for Wednesday, November 25^th and Sunday, November 29^th.

SANTA BARBARA, CA – September 30, 2015

Due to popular demand, the enrollment period for the TSA PreCheck® program at the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) has been extended through the week of October 26^th through October 30^{th .} The Airport made special arrangements for travelers to enroll in the TSA PreCheck® program for the week of Monday, October 19th through Friday, October 23rd, 2015 but when it sold out in the first two weeks of the announcement, Airport Director, Hazel Johns requested that the enrollment period be extended in order to serve all the passengers in the region.

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) has made special arrangements for travelers to enroll in the TSA PreCheck® program Monday, October 19 through Friday, October 23, 2015 at the Santa Barbara Airport Airline Terminal.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates another busy Labor Day weekend beginning Friday, September 4 through Monday, September 7^th. Alaska, American and United Airlines indicate the busiest days will be Friday and Monday with flights averaging 85-100% full to Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix and Los Angeles.

The Environmental Impact Report for the Airport Master Plan is available now through October 16 for public review and comment.

As we celebrate National Aviation Day it’s important to remember that our local Airport is a valuable resource. Almost 112 years ago, on December 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright changed the course of history by flying the first powered airplane 20 feet above a wind-swept beach in North Carolina.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates a busier-than-usual travel period this Fourth of July holiday. To make it an easy and enjoyable experience, passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and give themselves 90 minutes to find parking, check their luggage and go through security to ensure an easy walk to the boarding gate.

This Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer travel season and is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods of the year at the Santa Barbara Airport.

Santa Barbara Airport launching Thanks Again Loyalty and Engagement Solution so travelers can earn incremental rewards with qualifying airport purchases.

Santa Barbara, CA (May 4, 2015) – The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) has joined Thanks Again®, the world’s only airport loyalty coalition, to offer travelers valuable rewards when they park, shop or dine at the airport. Via Thanks Again, SBA is now afforded the opportunity to better engage its passengers and positively impact their day of travel experience.

Rep. Lois Capps (CA-24) announced that the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport received a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration for $3,026,481.

The Wings of Freedom Tour of the WWII Vintage Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator and North American P-51 Mustang Announce Unique Display in Santa Barbara at the Santa Barbara Airport from May 1- May 3, 2015

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is pleased to announce the release of the documentary “Above and Beyond: A History of Aviation in Santa Barbara.”

Santa Barbara Airport has been recognized by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) with an Excellence in Airport Training award.

Due to a storm in the San Francisco area all flights from Santa Barbara Airport to San Francisco Airport are cancelled until 5pm on February 6, 2015. Please call United Airlines at 1.800.864.8331 to be rebooked.

Santa Barbara Airport is pleased to announce the opening of the La Mission Café at the John T. Rickard Airline Terminal.

The December holiday season is here and the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) suggests anyone departing Friday, December 19 through Thursday, December 25 arrive 90 minutes early in order to have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

On Wednesday afternoon, Santa Barbara Airport surprised arriving and departing passengers with a burst of holiday cheer.

Due to an increase in passenger traffic this Thanksgiving holiday, the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) suggests anyone departing Friday November 21^st through Sunday, November 30^th arrive 90 minutes early in order to have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

This Veterans Day weekend the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) will be a great place to see 15 vintage World War II aircraft take off to participate in the scheduled festivities, sponsored by the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Museum.

Statement by Secretary Johnson of Homeland Security

A moment of silence will be observed at 8:46 a.m. on September 11^th at the Santa Barbara Airport Airline Terminal. All Airport operations will be temporarily suspended for 60 seconds in order to observe Patriot Day and honor those who lost their lives during the attack on the United States 13 years ago.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates another busy Labor Day weekend beginning Thursday, August 28 through Monday, September 2^. Passengers should arrive 90 minutes prior to their departure to ensure an easy and enjoyable experience.

Starting April 15, 2014, US Airways passengers should check in at the American Airlines counter at the Santa Barbara Airport

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) announced that marketing partner, BBM&D Strategic Branding, has won an American Advertising Award for their design of the Airport’s Aviation History brochure. The American Advertising Awards are the advertising industry’s largest award competition with over 40,000 entries annually. BBM&D’s design won in the American Advertising Federation Coastal California competition for creative excellence.

American Airlines announced yesterday that effective April 1, 2014 it will no longer offer service to Los Angeles from the Santa Barbara Airport due to restructuring of their routes nationwide. “US Airways will continue to offer American Airline customers access to SBA from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX),” said Matt Miller, Corporate Communications for American Airlines.

According to Flight View, Santa Barbara Airport was ranked in the Top 10 North American On-Time Arrival Airports for December 2013. The Airport was Ranked 14 for On-Time Departures.

The holiday travel season is upon us, and Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates the busiest days will be Friday, December 20 through Tuesday, December 24. SBA offers the following travel tips to help ensure an "easy come, easy go" experience at the Airport.

In the spirit of the holiday season, Santa Barbara Airport announces its 3rd Annual Songs of the Season beginning Monday, December 16 through Thursday, December 19th at the John T. Rickard Airline Terminal. Songs of the Season will feature the Dos Pueblos High School Jazz Choir, San Marcos High School Madcappella Choir, Santa Barbara High School Madrigal Singers and the Young Singers Club. These local school choirs and ensembles will entertain passengers and visitors each day.

Thanksgiving is the busiest time of the year for air travel in the United States with passengers flying around the country to be with friends and family. This Thanksgiving the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) would like to encourage you to plan ahead, arrive early and start your vacation the minute you arrive at the newly dedicated John T. Rickard Airline Terminal.

For passenger convenience during peak travel times, the Airport is providing a “Curbside Assistant” for people who may need extra help with getting their bags to the ticket counter.

Santa Barbara Airport offers the following holiday travel tips:


PLAN AHEAD – arrive 1.5 hours prior to your flight departure time to find parking, check-in with your airline, and go through security screening.

PARKING - Short Term Parking (in front of the Airline Terminal) Rates starting at $2 for the first hour, $1 for each additional hour, up to $20 maximum for 24 hours.

Long Term Parking Lot 1 ( a short walk to the east end of the Airline Terminal) Rates starting at $2 for the first hour, $1 for each additional hour, up to $12 maximum for 24 hours.

Long Term Parking Lot 2 (on Frederick Lopez Road, off Hollister Avenue near Fairview Avenue) Rates starting at $2 for the first hour, $1 for each additional hour, up to $9 maximum for 24 hours. There is a FREE Airport Parking Shuttle that takes you directly to the Airline Terminal front curb every 15 minutes. All parking lots are available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week and are automated - accepting payment via cash or credit card.

TSA - Approximately 2000 passengers pass through the Santa Barbara Airport every day. We recommend that if you are traveling this Thanksgiving holiday you check the TSA Traveler’s Guide for help.

The Santa Barbara Airport will begin a Pavement Rehabilitation Project for Runway 15R-33L on Tuesday, November 12, 2013. Funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the project will involve removing the surface pavement, filling existing under pavement cracks, and then re-paving a new asphalt surface course on the 4184 foot runway.

The Airport’s other two runways, the main runway 7-25 is utilized by jet and turbo-prop aircraft, and parallel runway 15L-33R is used primarily by smaller single and multi-engine aircraft, will not be affected by the closure of runway 15R-33L.

The $1,743,655 Pavement Rehabilitation Project was awarded to Granite Construction. The project will be completed in January 2014.
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is a self-supporting enterprise owned and operated by the City of Santa Barbara, serving over 720,000 passengers annually.

Keep your eyes skyward on Saturday, November 9th at 7:15am, when four T-34s, will take off from the Santa Barbara Airport to launch Veteran’s Day activities sponsored by the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Museum. The T-34’s will fly over Dos Pueblos High School and Ben Page Center in honor of Veterans Day and the beginning of the Veterans Day Marathon. Later in the morning expect to see the same aircraft fly over La Playa Stadium around 9:30am as the marathon runners approach the finish line.

On Sunday, November 10th around 12:45 pm, 18 vintage and modern aircraft will be flying over Cabrillo Blvd. in several classic military formations during this Sunday’s Veteran’s Day Parade.
For those who want to visit the Santa Barbara Airport to honor our veterans, the Airport has two memorials. The World War II Memorial is easily accessible and is located at 500 Fowler Road near the entrance to the Airline Terminal Long Term Parking lot. This Memorial honors local aviators that gave their lives in service to our country during World War II along with the men and women who served at the Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara during World War II. The granite Memorial bears the names of local aviators that perished during WWII and the Marine squadrons that trained at the Airport during the War.

The Corsair Memorial is located at 601 Firestone Road, directly west of the old Elephant Bar Restaurant off Hollister Avenue. The Memorial is an actual WWII aircraft propeller with a plaque that states, “This airport is dedicated to the memory of the pilots and air crews of the United States Marine Corps trained at this station who gave their lives to the country. Semper Fidelis. May 5, 1948.”

The Santa Barbara Airport honors all veterans.

After 37 years of public service, City Airport Director Karen Ramsdell announced that she will retire from her position on December 30. She has served as the Santa Barbara Airport Director for 26 years.

Ms. Ramsdell started her career with the City of Santa Barbara in 1976 in the City Clerk’s Office and accepted a variety of challenging assignments in the following years, including positions with the City’s Redevelopment Agency and Risk Management Program. In 1980, she moved to the Waterfront Department to become the Assistant Harbor Director managing services to harbor users and the boating public. By 1984, she transferred to a similar position at the Airport, serving as the Assistant Airport Director, and was appointed Airport Director in 1987.

With over 26 years at the helm of the Santa Barbara Airport, Ms. Ramsdell is responsible for the maintenance, operations, fiscal management, and long-term capital planning for the airport. She leads a staff of 54 employees and manages a $17 million operating budget. She has provided oversight to the overall planning and development of the $55 million Airline Terminal Improvement Project, which included the construction of a new 72,000 square foot terminal, relocation and renovation of the historic 1942 terminal, and improved roadways and parking facilities. Ms. Ramsdell played a lead role in planning and construction of facilities with an emphasis on modernizing the airport’s passenger amenities and incorporating public art and historical displays. The Airline Terminal and Rental Car Maintenance Facility recently received LEED Gold certifications for operating as high performance green buildings with model sustainability practices. Today, over 700,000 passengers begin or end their travel at the Santa Barbara Airport.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates a busier-than-usual travel period this Fourth of July holiday. To make it an easy and enjoyable experience, passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and give themselves 90 minutes to find parking, check their luggage and go through security to ensure that easy walk to the gate. As a reminder, fireworks are prohibited and should be left at home.

The recently opened Short Term Parking Lot, located directly across from the Airline Terminal entrance, is a convenient option for those dropping off or picking up passengers. Those passengers who travel for short durations may also wish to consider this parking option. Long Term Parking Lot 1, located adjacent to the Terminal, is but a short walk to ticketing. The off-site Long Term Parking Lot 2 has a FREE shuttle that takes you directly to the Terminal (located on Frederick Lopez Road near the corner of Hollister and Fairview Avenues).

• Short Term Parking Lot = $20 day ($2 first hour | $1 each additional)

• Long Term Parking Lot 1 = $12 day ($2 first hour | $1 each additional)

• Long Term Parking Lot 2 = $ 9 day ($2 first hour | $1 each additional)

For those picking up passengers and who do not wish to park, please use our new cell phone lots to wait for their arrival. (Next to WWII Memorial off James Fowler Road OR Cell Phone Lot off William Moffett Road at the Slough Overlook). Due to TSA security regulations in place since September 11, 2001, vehicles are not permitted to park at the Terminal curb unless active loading or unloading is taking place.

Read entire press release

Santa Barbara to Portland, Oregon non-stop seasonal service started this Sunday, June 9th and will run through the end of September on Alaska Airlines.

“We are thrilled to see the return of non-stop service to Portland from our Airport. Portland is now just a quick drive to SBA and a two hour flight away” said Hazel Johns, Assistant Airport Director.

Passengers depart from SBA at 8:00am and arrive in PDX two hours later aboard a 70 seat Bombardier CRJ-700. The CRJ-700 is among the quietest commercially operated jet aircraft, with far less noise and fuel emissions than the limits enforced by even the most environmentally sensitive airports.

Book your flights at Alaska Airlines or call your favorite travel agent!

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer travel season and is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Santa Barbara Airport expects Airport traffic to be heaviest on Thursday and Friday (May 23 - 24) and Tuesday (May 28).

Every Memorial Day visitors frequent two distinctive World War II Memorials located at the Santa Barbara Airport. Wreaths will be placed at both memorials in remembrance of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

The first memorial, dedicated in 1948, is located in front of the Airport Administration Building at 601 Norman Firestone Road. A distinctive propeller from a Chance Vought F4U Corsair aircraft is a poignant reminder of the Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara and the men and women who served there during World War II. Its plaque states, “This Airport is dedicated to the memory of the pilots and air crews of the United States Marine Corps trained at this station who gave their lives to the country. Semper Fidelis. May 5, 1948.”

An Airport History exhibit has been installed at the Santa Barbara Airport's Earle Ovington Terminal. "Santa Barbara Historical Museum staff did an outstanding job on the content and design of the exhibit," said Karen Ramsdell, Airport Director.

City TV is working on an Airport History video that will be available for viewing in the exhibit area. The installation of the video is expected by the end of May.

Airline passengers should expect possible flight delays starting Sunday, April 21^st, 2013 due to the Department of Transportation’s need to cut $637 million from the FAA’s $16 billion dollar budget. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans to cut air traffic control tower staffing by 10 percent at major hubs across the country because of these mandatory budget reductions.

Depending on the time of day, weather conditions, runway configuration, and single or multiple control towers in use, passenger flights could be delayed anywhere from 10 minutes to 3 hours according to a study made by the FAA on March 29^th at several major airports.

Go Here to Read the Entire Release

Santa Barbara to Portland, Oregon non-stop seasonal service is back starting June 9th through August 23rd on Alaska Airlines.

“We are thrilled to see the return of non-stop service to Portland from our Airport. Portland is now just a quick drive to SBA and a two hour flight away” said Hazel Johns, Assistant Airport Director.

Passengers will depart from SBA and arrive at PDX aboard a 70 seat Bombardier CRJ-700. The CRJ-700 is among the quietest commercially operated jet aircraft, with far less noise and fuel emissions than the limits enforced by even the most environmentally sensitive airports.

Book your flights today on FlySBA.com or call your favorite travel agent!

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates a busier than normal travel period between December 21, 2012 and January 2, 2013. During the month of December, passenger volumes at SBA tend to be higher than usual with the busiest days being Friday (December 21) through Wednesday (December 26). To ensure an easy arrival to the Airport, passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive at the Airport 1.5 hours prior to flight departure time.

For visitors picking up passengers, visit FlySBA.com or download our Free App, both with a live flight schedule that will keep you up to date with the latest departures and arrivals. Passengers may also want to arrive a little early to take advantage of SBA’s many new venues to get a great meal, snack or a drink before catching their flights. For those dropping off or picking up a passenger the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is available for food/beverages pre-security. Click here for a list of food and beverage options.

SBA OFFERS THE FOLLOWING TRAVEL TIPS:

Local school choirs and ensembles will entertain passengers and visitors alike at Santa Barbara Airport’s 2nd Annual Songs of the Season held at the new airline terminal, located at 500 James Fowler Road, December 10th, 18th, 19th, and 20th.

Songs of the Season will feature Dos Pueblos High School, San Marcos High School Madrigal Singers and A Cappella Choir, Santa Barbara High School Madrigal Singers, “The MistleTones”, Westmont College Winds and the Young Singers Club.

The schedule of performances is as follows and may be subject to change.

December 10 2:00 pm Westmont College Winds
December 18 1:00 pm The MistleTones
5:00 pm Dos Pueblos High School
December 19 8:30 am Santa Marcos High School Madrigal Singers & A Cappella Choir
5:00 pm The Young Singers
December 20 4:00 pm Santa Barbara High School Madrigal Singers

The general public is invited to attend. These Holiday performances are sponsored by the City of Santa Barbara, Airport Department.

Travelers will be excited to see the new changes that have taken place in the last few months with the completion of the Airline Terminal Project. An additional passenger drop off area is located right in front of the newly completed Historic Terminal. Passengers checking bags or who need a boarding pass can now go through the Historic Terminal to the Ticket Lobby entrance of the new terminal. During peak travel times, the Airport is providing a “Curbside Assistant” for passengers who may need extra help with getting their bags to the ticket counter. The new Short Term Parking Lot is open for business and is within steps to the main entrance.

On
Saturday, November 10th at 7:15am, four T-34s will fly over Dos Pueblos High School and Ben Page Center in honor of Veterans Day and the beginning of the Veterans Day Marathon. Later in the morning expect to see the same aircraft fly over La Playa Stadium around 9:30am as the marathon runners approach the finish line.

On Sunday, November 11th at 12:45pm fifteen aircraft will fly over State Street during the Veterans Day Parade as a tribute to citizens who have served their country through military service.

The Santa Barbara Airport World War II Memorials honor the local aviators that gave their lives in service to our country during World War II and the men and women who served at the Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara during World War II.

The granite Memorial bears the names of local aviators that perished during WWII and the Marine squadrons that trained at the Airport during the War.

The Corsair Memorial is an actual WWII aircraft propeller with a plaque that states, “This airport is dedicated to the memory of the pilots and air crews of the United States Marine Corps trained at this station who gave their lives to the country. Semper Fidelis. May 5, 1948.”

Visitors have easy access to the granite WWII Memorial located at 500 Fowler Road near the entrance to the Airline Terminal Long Term Parking lot. The Corsair Memorial is located at 601 Firestone Road, directly west of the Elephant Bar Restaurant off Hollister Avenue.

The Santa Barbara City Council is now accepting suggestions and public input to name the new airline terminal. At its July 23rd meeting, Council reviewed two requests to name the airline terminal and voted to defer any action on the requests for 90 days allowing time for community members to recommend additional names. Council will resume the airport terminal naming discussion on October 30th.

The City’s Municipal Code establishes the following criteria for the naming of public facilities:

Since September 11th, 2001 TSA Security Regulations have prohibited visitors from waiting in their vehicles for arriving passengers in front of the airline terminal building. Any vehicle left unattended in front of the Airline Terminal building may be ticketed and towed. Drivers must remain with their vehicle at all times and must be actively loading or unloading passengers and baggage.

In order to make your arrival and departure easy and enjoyable at your Airport we encourage you to use one of the following 3 options when picking up passengers. If your party is not waiting for you at the Airline Terminal front curb when you arrive you may:

• Park in Long Term Parking Lot 1 - $2 for the first hour. This allows you to come inside the terminal to greet your passenger. (The Short Term Parking Lot directly across from the Airline Terminal will open in early September - $2 for the first hour.)

• Park in one of our Cell Phone Waiting Areas:

--The World War II Memorial near the east end of the Long Term Parking Lot off of James Fowler Road has parking spaces available for limited time use.

--The Goleta Slough Overlook south of the Airline Terminal directly across from the Hwy 217 Sandspit Exit on William Moffett Place also has parking spaces available.

Waiting in your vehicle at the bus stop across the street from the terminal is prohibited. Vehicles create a safety hazard for bicyclists riding in the bike lane.

We appreciate you using the Santa Barbara Airport and look forward to the completion of the Airline Terminal Project in September 2012.

Santa Barbara Airport – Easy Come. Easy Go!

Updated Addendum #1

Read the full RFQ

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND PROPOSALS TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE SANTA BARBARA AIRPORT RUNWAYS 15L-33R & 15L-33R, PAVEMENT REHABILITATION AND AIRPORT SECURITY FENCE PROJECTS

Introduction & Project Description
The City of Santa Barbara is requesting Statements of Qualifications and Proposals from engineering firms to perform planning, design, and services during construction for rehabilitation of general aviation runways, and construction of a new security fence at the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA).

Wednesday, July 25th 7:00pm
Airport Visitor's Center
45 Hartley Place
Santa Barbara, CA

Discussion Topics

Santa Barbara Tower/TRACON Standard Operating Procedures

• Santa Barbara Clearance Delivery - Why We Issue Headings Instead of SID's
• New Airport Hotspots - Ground Control Routes and Hold Instructions
• Open Forum

The Santa Barbara Airport invites interested members of the public to attend the second of four public information workshops on July 11, 2012 from 6:00pm to 7:30pm to discuss the ongoing preparation of a new Master Plan for the Santa Barbara Airport.

Workshop Location:
Santa Barbara Airport Administration Building
601 Firestone Road Santa Barbara, California 93117
(Next to the Elephant Bar Restaurant)

The workshop will be an open house format with exhibits on display, along with Airport staff and aviation consultants on hand to answer questions regarding the Airport and the planning process. This workshop will focus on demand and capacity issues as well as facility requirements for the Airport. Anyone interested may drop by between 6:00pm and 7:30pm.

The Airport Master Plan is an evaluation of current and forecasted airport activity, facility requirements, and a review of various alternatives for Santa Barbara Airport. The objective of the Airport Master Plan is to provide guidance for future development which will satisfy aviation demand in an environmentally and fiscally responsible manner while adhering to appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety design standards. Through coordinated review by the City of Santa Barbara, the FAA, airport users, and the public, a recommended development concept will evolve which serves as a guide to realistic and achievable airport development.

Discussion Topics

Santa Barbara Tower/TRACON Standard Operating Procedures

1.Runway Configurations
2.VFR Pattern Entry/Departure
3.IFR Arrivals/Departures/Missed Approaches
4.Noise Abatement Procedures
5.Radar Sites and Site Coverage

Non-Standard Procedures

1.VFR Crosswind/Downwind Departures and Arrivals
2.Uncommon Runway Configurations
3.Opposite Direction Arrivals and Departures

Pilot Comments/Concerns

1.Open Forum

Controller Comments/Concerns

Possibility of Renaming FBO Ramps

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND PROPOSALS TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE SANTA BARBARA AIRPORT RUNWAYS 15L-33R & 15L-33R, PAVEMENT REHABILITATION AND AIRPORT SECURITY FENCE PROJECTS

Alaska Airlines will begin non-stop seasonal service between Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) and Portland, Oregon (PDX) starting Monday, June 4th. In cooperation with Portland, both departing and arriving passengers on this inaugural flight will receive gift bags containing Santa Barbara and Portland souvenirs as they board their plane for the short two-hour flight.

Every Memorial Day visitors frequent two distinctive WWII Memorials located at the Santa Barbara Airport; a granite obelisk Memorial near the Airline Terminal and a Corsair propeller Memorial located at the Administrative Offices. The granite Memorial bears the names of local aviators that perished during WWII and the Marine squadrons that trained at the Airport during the War. This Memorial at Vista Point was dedicated in a special ceremony May 2010 with local veteran groups and community dignitaries. It is situated in reflective setting with slate walkways, olive trees, stone benches and interpretive signage.

The Corsair Memorial is an actual WWII aircraft propeller with a plaque that states, “This airport is dedicated to the memory of the pilots and air crews of the United States Marine Corps trained at this station who gave their lives to the country. Semper Fidelis. May 5, 1948.” Visitor access to the memorials is convenient since the granite Memorial is located at 500 Fowler Road near the entrance to Terminal long term parking and the propeller Memorial is located at 601 Firestone Road, directly west of the Elephant Bar Restaurant off Hollister Avenue. Twentieth century history of the Santa Barbara Airport shows it was quickly transformed in 1942 by the U.S. government from a sleepy local airport to a Marine Corps Air Station to support national defense.

The Wings of Freedom Tour of the WWII Vintage Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator and North American P-51 Mustang Announce Unique Display in Santa Barbara at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport from May 14 to May 16.

In honor of our WWII Veterans ~ The Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour Brings Extremely Rare Bomber and Fighter Aircraft for Local Living History Display as Part of 110-city Nationwide Tour

WHAT: Participating in the Collings Foundation’s WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Nine O Nine” WWII Heavy Bomber, Consolidated B-24 Liberator “Witchcraft” WWII Heavy Bomber and P-51 Mustang, will fly into Santa Barbara Municipal Airport in Santa Barbara, CA for a visit from May 14 to May 16. This is a rare opportunity to visit, explore, and learn more about these unique and rare treasures of aviation history. The B-17 is one of only 10 in flying condition in the United States, the B-24J and Full Dual Control P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples of their type flying in the World. Visitors are invited to explore the aircraft inside and out - $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12 is requested for access to up-close viewing and tours through the inside of the aircraft. WWII Veterans can tour through the aircraft at no cost. Discounted rates for school groups. Visitors may also experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to actually take a 30-minute flight aboard these rare aircraft. Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are $425 per person. Get some “stick time” in the world’s greatest fighter! P-51 flights are $2,200 for a half hour and $3,200 for a full hour. For reservations and information on flight experiences call 800-568-8924.

Isla Vista Elementary School (our Adopt-A-School-partner since 1991) was recently named a California Distinguished School. Tim Lawton, our Education Liaison works closely with Isla Vista throughout the year.

To help celebrate this wonderful achievement by the students, teachers and Principal Maglione, we asked UCSB's Athletic Department if they would be willing to bring their soccer teams to the school and talk about what it meant to be a champion. Greg Curry, the men's assistant soccer coach spoke, along with all the players about the importance of going to college, working hard and staying in school. A soccer ball was then presented to Principal Maglione on behalf of UCSB and the Airport.

Check out our Facebook page to see photographs of the assembly, students and UCSB soccer players!

Santa Barbara Airport will be celebrating the opening of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in the main lobby of the Airline Terminal Monday, November 28th.. At 9:00am Mayor Helene Schneider will cut the red ribbon. As part of the celebration, the newly located concession will be offering a pastry tasting as well as 10% off on all coffees and teas.

Departing passengers can relax and enjoy the upstairs Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or the Costa Terraza Restaurant & Tapas Bar. For last minute gifts, visit Santa Barbara News & Gifts then sit back, relax, and enjoy our Santa Barbara views while you wait to board your plane.

Come and join us at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf grand opening and see what’s new at SBA!

The Santa Barbara Airport World War II Memorials honor the local aviators that gave their lives in service to our country during World War II and the men and women who served at the Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara during World War II.

The granite Memorial bears the names of local aviators that perished during WWII and the Marine squadrons that trained at the Airport during the War.

The Corsair Memorial is an actual WWII aircraft propeller with a plaque that states, “This airport is dedicated to the memory of the pilots and air crews of the United States Marine Corps trained at this station who gave their lives to the country. Semper Fidelis. May 5, 1948.”

Visitor access to the memorials is convenient since the granite Memorial is located at 500 Fowler Road near the entrance to Terminal long term parking and the propeller Memorial is located at 601 Firestone Road, directly west of the Elephant Bar Restaurant off Hollister Avenue.

Airline Terminal Project - Phase 3 Diagram

Airport Director Karen Ramsdell expressed her pleasure about the grant award adding, “Through the vision of Congress many decades ago, the Airport Improvement Program was established to fund infrastructure critical to the nation’s air transportation system. The Program was, and continues, to be funded by the system users, not the general taxpayer.”

Assistant Airport Director Hazel Johns explained what the new Master Plan will entail, “The Airport has implemented all the projects approved in its 2002 Master Plan and, as required by the FAA, it is time to develop a new Master Plan. This Master Plan will focus on any airfield safety improvements that may be recommended and facilities for general aviation.”

Ms. Ramsdell also said that over the past ten years, the Santa Barbara Airport has received over $65 million in AIP grants that have funded airfield safety improvements and contributed to the funding of the Airport’s new airline terminal. Commenting on the Airport’s economic impact to the region, she stated that, “Santa Barbara Airport is an important economic asset of this region and the projects funded by AIP grants provide jobs in the engineering and construction industries, material suppliers, and ancillary support businesses.”

The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is a self-supporting enterprise owned and operated by the City of Santa Barbara; serving over 750,000 passengers annually.

The new Santa Barbara Airport Airline Terminal will open for business on Thursday, August 18 (August 17 for planes arriving after 10 p.m.). The new 72,000 square foot terminal boasts streamlined passenger services with one airline ticket lobby, one passenger security screening area, one spacious departure lounge with five boarding gates, and one baggage claim area which includes all rental car counters. For passenger convenience, complimentary WiFi is available throughout the building.

The "Good Time Clock IV 1984" created by sculptor George Rhoads has been on display at the Santa Barbara Airport and enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1990. The popular rolling ball machine contained in a plexi-glass case sits in the airfield courtyard of the Airline Terminal and is sorely in need of repairs due to worn out parts.

Beginning February 1st, the iconic kinetic sculpture synonymous with the Santa Barbara Airport experience will undergo a complete overhaul. The piece has been on long-term loan from the David Bermant Foundation and will return later this year when the new Terminal becomes operational. The Foundation and the Airport are having the piece refurbished for future generations of Airport visitors.

George Rhoads, a painter, sculptor, and one of America’s first origami masters, was born in 1926 in Chicago. He is best known for the large audio-kinetic sculptures that attract and engage people throughout the world. Balls roll and percussion devices clatter and chime in airports, hospitals, art museums, science museums, shopping centers and other public places.

The first public presentation is scheduled for Tuesday, October 12th at 2 p.m. for the Santa Barbara City Council Meeting in Council Chambers at 735 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. The Council meetings are televised live on Channel 18 and also viewable anytime on the City’s website at http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/Government/Video/. Kevin Schorr, air service consultant, will also present air service information about how the Airport works to attract airlines to serve SBA.

The second public presentation is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20th at 7 p.m. for the Airport Commission Meeting at the Administrative Offices at 601 Firestone Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93117. Or viewers can watch this meeting that is taped for later telecasts on Channel 18. The government access programming schedule is available at http://www.citytv18.com/meetings.htm

• City of Santa Barbara Airport, Police and Fire Departments and Office of Emergency Services
• Santa Barbara County Fire, Sheriff, Coroner’s and Office of Emergency Services
• City of Goleta
• Federal Aviation Administration
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Transportation Security Administration
• California Highway Patrol
• American Medical Response
• American Red Cross
• SkyWest Airlines
• American Eagle Airlines
• Mesa Air
• Signature Flight Support
• Atlantic Aviation
• UCSB Campus Police and Medical Response
• Santa Barbara City College – medical emergency role-playing volunteers
• Metropolitan Transit District – loan of bus to simulate a commercial aircraft

The mock scenario for the full-scale exercise (read more...)

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates a busier-than-normal travel period from Thursday, September 2 through Tuesday, September 7 during the Labor Day holiday weekend. More than 15,000 passengers traveled through SBA during the same time period in 2009 with the busiest travel days being the Friday before and Monday of Labor Day. For the latest travel tips and security requirements, log on to http://www.flysba.com/travel_info/travel_tips

PLAN AHEAD
Passengers and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and give themselves 90 minutes to two hours to find parking, check their luggage and go through the security checkpoint to ensure they are at their gate in time for their flight. A Goleta Sanitary District sewer main replacement project is underway on south Fairview Avenue between the Airline Terminal and Hollister Avenue causing brief delays. Travelers are advised to use highway 217 when traveling from the south to avoid the construction. Those passengers driving to the Airport from the north and wishing to park their vehicles are advised to use the Fairview Avenue exit and park in Long Term Parking Lot 2 for complimentary shuttle transport to the Airline Terminal.

The Goleta Sanitary District is scheduled to begin a sewer line replacement construction project this week on south Fairview Avenue. Vehicular access to the Airline Terminal (500 James Fowler Road) will be impeded on Fairview between Hollister Avenue and James Fowler Road. During the six-month construction period, traffic into the Airline Terminal area via Fairview Avenue will be subject to 1-5 five minute delays each way.

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer travel season and is traditionally one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) expects airport traffic to be heaviest on Friday (May 28) and Tuesday (June 1). In 2009, nearly 13,000 passengers traveled through SBA between the Friday before and the Tuesday after Memorial Day.

Schedules
for the new Santa Barbara service:

Santa Barbara – Denver (Effective June 4, 2010)
Departs 6:30 am - Arrives 9:55am Daily (Except Sunday) Aircraft E190
Departs 3:00 pm - Arrives 6:22pm Daily

Denver – Santa Barbara (Effective June 4, 2010)
Departs 12:35 pm Arrives 2:05 pm Daily Aircraft E190
Departs 9:10 pm Arrives 10:40 pm Daily (Except Saturday)

*Service for the 6:30 a.m. flight begins June 5, 2010

On May 15th, 2010 from 10-5 Above All Aviation will be sponsoring International Learn to Fly Day here at SBA. Not only will our school be open for free seminars we will also be raffling off 1 discovery flight after each session. If they all fill up that will be 7 free flights! The local chapter of the 99's , EAA, Santa Barbarba Flying club and the Civil Air Patrol will all have displays, some will include aircraft other with information about there organizations. Above All Aviation is reaching out to all these organizations and the community to promote not only the joys of flying but to make GA more of a community. Where we all share our experiences with each other. This is just one of the events we will sponsor in the coming year.

Register at http://www.learntoflyday.com/ or http://www.aboveallaviationsba.com/blog/.com for more information.

Or call Shawn Sullivan at 805-455-3575.

The City of Santa Barbara Mayor Helene Schneider will "cut the ribbon" for the Airport’s recently constructed consolidated rental car service facility in a ceremony with community leaders at 25 David Love Place on Thursday, May 6 at 9:30 a.m. The rental car facility has achieved Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification. Marilyn Farmer, Local Chapter President of the U.S. Green Building Council, will present a LEED Gold plaque to Mayor Schneider and Karen Ramsdell, Airport Director, during the event tomorrow.

The rental car facility was designed to meet LEED guidelines that include energy and water efficiency, indoor environment quality, solid waste reduction, renewable energy generation, and the use of green building materials. The facility is the first Gold Certified LEED building constructed by the City of Santa Barbara under the U.S. Green Building Council rating system for new construction (NC). This achievement took considerable effort as exemplified by being one of just 129 Gold Certified LEED-NC buildings in California.

A New Aircraft Self-Service Fuel Station became operational April 15, 2010. MAG Aviation installed a self-serve fuel station on the aircraft ramp near the northwest end of Cecil Cook Place (old USFS ramp). The project was constructed in response to private aircraft owner requests for another fuel service option at SBA. The Avgas fuel station primarily serves aircraft weighing 12,500 pounds or less. Fuel costs may be below those offered at the two fixed based operators on the airfield.

Read this press release from MAG Aviation Fuel and more information about the B17 at Santa Barbara Airport.

B-17 Tour Sponsored by EAA 527 Arrives at Santa Barbara Airport April 23-25, 2010.

To book a flight please call 1-800-359-6217 or go to the website www.B17.org

B-17 location on field – South of Hangar 1 - Junction of Arnold Place and Cook Place.

Pricing for flights
Pre-book - for EAA members $359, for non-members $399
Walk-up – for EAA members $385, for non-members $425

Self Guided Ground Tours daily from 2-5 pm. Cost $5 per adult, $15 per family.
Active Military or Veterans free.

EAA is offering historic flight experiences in its beautifully restored B-17G Flying Fortress “Aluminum Overcast.” One of only 14 Fortress's still flying, this aircraft is an icon of the Allied strategic bombing effort that helped turn the tide of battle in World War II. Unlike reading a history book, you can actually fly a mission back in time and feel the might of this magnificent machine, just as those brave young men did more than 60 years ago

Santa Barbara Airport's new rental car service facility achieves LEED Gold!

The Santa Barbara Airport’s recently constructed rental car service facility at 25 David Love Place has achieved Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification. While vehicle rentals remain adjacent to the Airline Terminal, the ‘quick-turn-around’ (QTA) operation off Hollister Avenue replaces the rental car service area at the Terminal. The new 3.6 acre QTA facility includes a 10,000 square foot light maintenance and support building, car wash bays, a fueling operation, and secure storage for more than 300 vehicles.

Frontier Announces Intro Fares from Santa Barbara Airport with service to begin June 4, 2010, with fares as low as $99* each way!

DENVER (Feb. 14, 2010) – Frontier Airlines today announced introductory fares for its new twice-daily nonstop service between Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and Denver International Airport (DEN) beginning June 4, 2010. Frontier customers can now purchase tickets to/from Santa Barbara, Calif. for as low as $99* each way. Sale-priced tickets must be purchased by 9:59 p.m. MT April 15, for travel through Sept. 28, 2010. These intro fares can be booked on our Web site at FrontierAlines.com.

Frontier’s Santa Barbara service will be flown by the Embraer E190 aircraft. Customers on board this 99-seat aircraft enjoy comfortable leather seating in a two-by-two configuration. In addition, all of the E190 aircraft have several rows of STRETCH seating, which provides an additional five inches of comfortable legroom.

For a complete list of fares to all of Frontier’s destinations from Santa Barbara.

Frontier Adds New Nonstop Service from Santa Barbara Service to/from Denver begins June 4, 2010.

DENVER (Feb. 4, 2010) – Frontier Airlines today announced its summer 2010 schedule with the exciting addition of new twice daily nonstop service between Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and Denver International Airport (DEN) beginning June 4, 2010. Fares for this new service will be available for sale on FrontierAirlines.com beginning Feb. 14, 2010.

“This is a very exciting day for Frontier Airlines,” said Daniel Shurz, Frontier’s vice president of planning and strategy. “With the delivery of three new Airbus A320s and additional E190s this spring we are able to expand our service to new and underserved markets out of Denver. Customers in Santa Barbara can now look forward to Frontier’s excellent customer service and affordable fares as they travel to/from Denver and beyond.”

Frontier’s Santa Barbara service will be flown by the Embraer 190 aircraft. Customers on board this 99-seat aircraft enjoy comfortable leather seating in a two-by-two configuration. In addition, all of the E190 aircraft have several rows of STRETCH seating, which provides an additional five inches of comfortable legroom.

Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is seeking artists to create and apply
design elements to be incorporated in the structure of the new Airline Terminal. A request for proposals is being released today as a ‘Call for Artists’ in three categories:1) stenciling of wooden ceiling beams; 2) wrought iron embellishments for interior railings; and 3) floor medallion design and installation in the rotunda of Terminal’s north entrance. These opportunities are part of the Airport’s Public Art Program.
The finished works will be viewed by over 2,000 people daily.

As an important community gateway, SBA is committed to providing a venue for public art that enriches the visitors experience and reflects the history and culture of the region. The SBA Public Art Program has four major components:

• Existing Art: Inclusion and relocation of the Good Time Clock by George Rhoades and the Albatross - Golden Glider by Dustin Shuler courtesy of the Bermant Foundation.

• Commissioned Art: Various pieces sponsored by the Airport, Santa Barbara Beautiful and the Pierre Claeyssens Museum.

• Long-Term Loan Art: Fiesta (1984) mural by Channing Peake, on loan from the Santa BarbaraCounty Arts Commission; and a large 1930’s courthouse lantern on loan from the Santa Barbara Courthouse Legacy Foundation that will hang in the main entrance hall of the new Airline Terminal.

• Regional Art: Artwork in various media by regional artists will be displayed on a rotating basis throughout the year.

To launch the new Art Program, murals created by local students will be installed on the construction fence around the Airline Terminal building site in 2010.

Barbara Airport (SBA) anticipates a busier than normal travel period between December 18, 2009 and January 4, 2010. During the month of December, passenger volumes at SBA tend to be higher than usual with the busiest days being Friday (December 18) through Sunday (December 27). However, passengers should be aware of an expanded travel window through Sunday, January 4. To ensure a smooth visit to the Airport, passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive at the Airport two hours prior to flight departure time.

SBA offers the following tips: (read more...)

Flights could be redirected from the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) this weekend due to the ILS being out of service if there is low visibiility due to rain or fog.The ILS being out of service during inclement weather has caused delays of arrivals and departures this afternoon, and is likely to continue through Monday. To find out more details, read more...

The GroundBreaking begins on the new Santa Barbara Airline Terminal. Read The entire story at this link:

Santa Barbara Airport to Celebrate Airline Terminal Groundbreaking on October 22, 2009.

1. T-Hangar Lottery Invitation
2. Lottery Application
3. T-Hangar Waiting List Policy and Procedures

Jesusita Fire Burn Area Hydromulching Set to Begin Sept. 15.
Click this link for information on the Front Country Trail Closures Announced.