Story ID: 
Runway Removal To Commence at SMO
By: Curt Epstein
Caption: The project will irrevokeably reduce the length of the airport's Runway to 3,500 feet.
Word Count: 212
California’s embattled Santa Monica Airport will be closed today through Thursday as crews continue the removal of pavement from the shortened Runway 3/21. The project, a step toward the airport’s planned permanent closure in 2028, involves the removal of approximately 750 feet of pavement and accompanying taxiways at each end of the runway, which were closed to aviation operations at the end of 2017, as the city reduced its length to 3,500 feet.

The airport has seen nighttime closures starting on June 16 from 9 p.m. through 7 a.m., as part of the multi-phase project, according to NBAA, with completion targeted for early September. It will be closed completely again next month from August 5 to 8. Notams will be issued on the airport’s website with updated closure information.

While this takes place, the airport will also play host on July 12 to the launch of the Eco-Aviation Foundation International, which seeks to promote the development and market acceptance of electric and hybrid aircraft. The reception at the Museum of Flying will feature keynote addresses from Bye Aerospace founder and CEO George Bye and Kevin Noertker co-founder and CEO of Ampaire, both of whom are working to bring the first wave of electrically powered aircraft to market within the next few years.