Santa Monica Airport: The Key to the City on the Sea
Introduction
Due to a topographic feature that is just 2 miles from the ocean, Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO) has enjoyed almost nine decades as an aviation hub. Founded in 1928, this historic airfield has been a cornerstone of the growth and development of Los Angeles County, providing capacity relief for some economic activity at the busier LAX.
Airlines and Destinations
Most of the operations at SMO are geared towards general aviation, but there is commercial activity as well. Jet Edge and Wheels Up are examples of private charter companies that provide service to destinations throughout the US, along with other countries. In addition, a number of flight schools — including the prestigious Santa Monica Flight Academy — call SMO home to offer pilot training and aircraft rentals.
Number of Passengers and Flight Requests
While getting the Service Level it provides at a general aviation airport is uncommon due to its relatively low passenger capacity compared with airports in major cities, in 2019, the facility saw more than 200K aircraft operations—putting it among the busiest single-runway airports on earth. SMO has continued to show activity in terms of private and recreational aviation, which has been a bright spot for the airport amid an otherwise depressed year due to the pandemic.
How to Get Here
SMO is conveniently situated only 6 miles north of LAX and easily reachable from all the Los Angeles area. The airport is just off the 10 Freeway, so right as you get to town when headed down from Arizona. The airport does have a public transportation connection: Big Blue Bus service with routes to the Expo Line light rail station that eventually will link SMO users and employees.
Parking
There are many types of parking in SMO, including short-term and long-term, which make it easy for visitors. Prices start at $2 per hour, and the daily maximums for lots range from around $12 to about $20. The airport also hosts a convenient cell phone lot for anyone in a hurry to pick up someone without paying for parking.
Transportation Prices
The airport is relatively inexpensive both to travel from and to—there are a host of ways you can get here. A one-way trip to most local stops probably costs $10-$20 using a rideshare service like Uber and Lyft. Taxi and shuttle services are also available, though they start at around $25 for transport into Downtown Santa Monica.
Terminal Layout
The terminal plan is pretty simple for a single-runway airport like SMO. Located in the main terminal building are also businesses such as a flight school, pilot supply shop, and airport administrative offices. You may also see a couple of private hangars and FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) facilities operating on either side of the terminal to meet more personalized needs for general aviation pilots, as well as aircraft owners.
Navigate the Airport
SMO is small enough and well-marked to be simple in- and outbound. Arriving visitors will be directed to the terminal building, numerous parking lots, and FBO facilities. The airport website and the mobile app are also very useful as they contain information on flights in real time and terminal maps.
Getting Between Terminals
And while it only has one terminal, at least you won't have to worry about getting from an express parking area on the south side to a long-term parking lot way over on the other side. What makes the onsite facilities here so attractive is that all passenger services and amenities are housed in a single main terminal building, ensuring easy access to everything.
Services and Amenities
The smallest of its kind, SMO still offers a variety of services and amenities for users. The modern terminal building offers a pilot lounge with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a flight planning area. Moreover, the airport has car rental agencies on-site that help facilitate travel.
Restaurants and Shops
While SMO boasts choice dining and shopping options, there are a handful of notable establishments inside the terminal building. The historic aircraft hangar is used as a popular event space, hosting pop-ups for food and retail. Near the airport is Santa Monica, a bustling town with plenty of restaurants, shopping, and things to do.
Security and Customs
Although it is a general-aviation facility with no TSA security—for better or worse—the airport is subject to strict security measures and access control, as well as regular patrols. For international travelers, the airport serves as a port of entry where they can clear customs and immigration processing into the United States.
Accessibility
SMO strives to make the airport accessible for all. Among other things, the terminal building and adjacent structures are handicap-accessible with ramps for access to the upper floors of buildings where there is not direct external level-entry. The airport also offers services to meet the needs of passengers who require special attention, such as wheelchair use or interpretation in other languages.
Travel Tips
Due to SMO's location, parking and check-in can take longer than at larger airports, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early. Also, remember the noise abatement procedures of the airport to minimize the impact on those around you. Check out the colorful city of Santa Monica with its world-renowned beach, lively promenade, and diverse arts scene.