We appreciate the communication we have recently received from some neighbors regarding an increase in air traffic, particularly with smaller aircraft, in both the Camarillo and Oxnard airspace. The Department of Airports is providing a couple of explanations regarding why this is happening.
Van Nuys Airport is undergoing construction on their training runway, resulting in a runway closure. This has led to an increase in planes coming to the Oxnard and Camarillo area, as well as other airports in the region, to conduct training operations. The runway project at Van Nuys is expected to be completed by April 17th, at which time we expect to notice a reduction in the volume of operations. It is important to note that in addition to the runway closure at Van Nuys, we do generally see an uptick in operations once improved weather and spring/summer arrive.
So where does Fly Friendly VC fit in with all of this?
(Click here to learn about Fly Friendly VC)
As you may know, the airspace at both Camarillo and Oxnard airports is federally regulated, which means we do not have authority over who can and cannot fly in the area, nor can we limit operations. Having said that, we have been in contact with both the Van Nuys operations team and the towers teams to ensure that Fly Friendly VC (FFVC) protocols remain in place whenever possible. The Van Nuys operations team agreed to share FFVC materials with pilots there, several of which have already received the material through our pilot education efforts. The tower teams at both Oxnard and Camarillo airports have remained committed to FFVC, which can be noted most in the attached two screenshots of air traffic over Oxnard. The first image is of September 12th, 2022, the same month FFVC was launched. The second image is of Monday, April 7th.
Prior to the launch of FFVC, residential overflights and turns prior to the shoreline were a regular occurrence. Almost all traffic was to the south. Since FFVC, and with continued pilot education, right turn traffic to the north is a regular occurrence and ensures that planes are at a lower power setting (less noise) when over homes.
We know there is more work to do, and we will certainly keep you updated on any additional information we have. Please know that FFVC is an ongoing effort that requires a collective effort from both the aviation community and our neighbors.