Federal Safety Review Suggested Following Pacoima Whiteman Airport Crash Amid Ongoing Closure Discussions

Town Hall Addresses Future of Whiteman Airport

PACOIMA, CA — A town hall meeting convened recently to discuss the future of Whiteman Airport, following a small plane crash that raised safety concerns among local residents.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath announced plans to introduce a motion next week calling for a comprehensive federal review of aviation operations at the airport. She also seeks a county report aimed at enhancing safety measures. "Residents deserve clear answers and confidence that every available safety measure is being considered," Horvath stated. She emphasized the complexities of aviation safety, noting that while the county owns the airport, key operations fall under federal oversight, particularly those governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The urgency of Horvath’s proposed motion follows the April 20 crash of a Cessna 172, which struck a power pole while approaching Whiteman Airport. The incident resulted in the aircraft landing upside down in the parking lot of an auto parts store, critically injuring the pilot, though no other injuries were reported. This incident is part of a troubling trend; multiple crashes have occurred in recent years, reigniting discussions about the airport’s future.

In early 2022, the county Board of Supervisors explored the possibility of closing the airport. Previous incidents, including a plane landing on train tracks and getting hit by a Metrolink train, as well as a fatal crash that claimed the life of a pilot in Sylmar, have contributed to the ongoing debate.

While some community members advocate for the airport’s closure, supporters argue its critical role in local aviation cannot be overlooked. The Whiteman Airport Coalition expressed its disappointment with Horvath’s recent calls for federal accountability. "We support her urgency but emphasize that context and facts matter," the coalition said, recalling her previous decision to halt FAA-funded improvement projects at Whiteman despite available funding.

In response to the April crash, Horvath’s office has reached out to the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to expedite their reviews and coordinate corrective actions. Her forthcoming motion will instruct the county Department of Public Works to:

• Identify immediate safety enhancement actions for the airport.
• Provide a comprehensive report within a week, detailing timelines, costs, and potential funding sources.
• Outline jurisdictional responsibilities shared by the FAA, NTSB, Los Angeles County, and other local stakeholders.
• Examine federal regulations related to aircraft operations and pilot requirements, including contingency protocols for power outages or other disruptions.

As the community awaits further developments, the stakes remain high for ensuring the safety of those living near Whiteman Airport.