Santa Monica Municipal Airport
Short FieldSanta Monica Municipal Airport is a historic private aviation gateway on the Westside of Los Angeles, located just 2 miles from the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Pier. The 3,500-foot runway accommodates light jets, turboprops, and some super-light jets. SMO has been a favorite of celebrities and Westside executives for decades, offering the fastest arrival to Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu. Note that the airport is scheduled to close by December 2028 under a federal agreement, so its remaining years are the last chance to experience this iconic Hollywood-era airport. Estimated charter rates to West Los Angeles via Santa Monica: light jets from $4,000 per hour, mid-size jets subject to runway review.
Transworld Jets Insider Tip
Santa Monica's short runway limits operations to light jets and turboprops. For mid-size or heavy jets heading to the Westside of LA, our brokers recommend Van Nuys (VNY) with helicopter or ground transfer to Santa Monica or Malibu. SMO's scheduled 2028 closure makes every flight a collector's experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mid-size jets land at Santa Monica Airport?
Santa Monica's 3,500-foot runway limits operations to light jets, very light jets, and turboprops. Mid-size and heavy jets should use Van Nuys (VNY) instead, with ground or helicopter transfer to Santa Monica.
Is Santa Monica Airport closing?
Yes. Under a federal settlement, Santa Monica Municipal Airport is scheduled to close by December 31, 2028. It remains fully operational for private aviation until that date.
How far is Santa Monica Airport from the beach?
Santa Monica Municipal Airport is approximately 2 miles from the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean, typically a 10-minute drive. It's 5 minutes from downtown Santa Monica and 15 minutes from Beverly Hills.
Aircraft Compatible with Santa Monica Municipal Airport
Based on the longest runway (3,500 ft), the following aircraft categories can operate here.
Runway Information
Short Field Airport. Longest runway is 3,500 ft. Restricted to turboprops, very light jets, and select light jets. Contact us for aircraft compatibility.
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Lighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03/21 | 3,500 ft | 150 ft | Asphalt | ✓ Yes |
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Charter a Jet from Santa Monica
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- IATA Code
- SMO
- ICAO Code
- KSMO
- Elevation
- 170 ft
- Runways
- 1
- Longest Runway
- 3,500 ft
- Location
- Santa Monica, California