🇺🇸 Santa Paula Airport

Santa Paula Airport (SZP/KSZP) is a privately owned, public-use airport located one nautical mile southeast of the central business district of Santa Paula, Ventura County, California, United States.

• It exclusively serves privately operated general aviation aircraft and has no scheduled commercial service.
• The airport covers 51 acres at an elevation of 250 feet above mean sea level.
• It has one asphalt runway, designated 4/22, measuring 2,665 by 60 feet, and one helipad.
• Historical significance:
• Originally established in 1927 by local rancher Ralph Dickenson, it officially opened in 1930.
• Much of the original 1930s-era facilities are still in use, giving it an authentic representation of the interwar years.
• It is a favorite flying spot for vintage aircraft owners and was a favorite of actor Steve McQueen.
• The Aviation Museum of Santa Paula is headquartered at the airport.
• Known uses:
• Used for training flights by pilots from Southern and Central California due to its unique operating environment, short field, and challenging terrain.
• Home to CP Aviation, which offers flight school, aircraft rental, and maintenance.
• Served as a helibase for CAL FIRE during the 2017 Thomas Fire, operating approximately 23 helicopters for water and fire retardant drops.
• The airport was heavily damaged by flooding from the Santa Clara River in 2005, which destroyed part of the runway, but was fully reopened by 2007.

*Sources researched: en.wikipedia.org, thejetfinder.com, airports-worldwide.com, santapaulatimes.com, iki.hijodeputin.com*