https://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/new...-230473-1.html

SMO Reports Fewer Jets, More Helicopters

By Mary Grady | March 21, 2018

The operators of Santa Monica Airport shortened the sole runway in
December, but the airport’s data
https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/...mpar ison.pdf
for February shows that while jet operations were down 80 percent
compared to the 2016-17 average, helicopter and turboprop operations
both increased by about 40 percent. Piston operations remained about
the same, with a slight 2 percent drop. Overall, the total takeoffs
and landings were down just over 1 percent for the month, compared to
the 2016-17 average. “Perhaps jet setters are choosing other ways to
beat the traffic over the 405,” noted the local Malibu Times. The
runway was shortened from 5,000 to 3,500 feet.

The city has said it plans to close the airport by the end of 2028.
NBAA is challenging that decision in the courts. Oral arguments in
that case are set for May 14 in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals.
NBAA has said it hopes ultimately the courts will force the city to
restore the runway to its original length
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https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/...mpar ison.pdf
Monthly Departure Operations Update Report
Santa Monica Airport
Total
3,209
2,113
2,661
126
41%
139
-80%
1,623
-2%
331
40%
2,219
February 2018
275
Month
February 2016
February 2017
Prior 2 February months Avg.
197
236
Monthly Comparison of Departure Operations
72
90