Carlsbad residents urge city to litigate against county over Palomar Airport expansion plans

Concerns over the future of Palomar Airport took center stage during the recent City Council meeting in Carlsbad, as residents voiced their fears about the county's plans to expand the airport's operations. Originally permitted as a general aviation facility over 45 years ago, Palomar Airport has primarily served small private aircraft. However, the county is now pushing to accommodate larger commercial jets, which has raised alarms among local residents regarding safety and capacity.

The airport currently operates with a limited runway and lacks air traffic control, leading to worries that increased traffic could jeopardize the health and safety of surrounding communities. Residents highlighted that the recent aviation disaster in Washington, D.C., underscores the need for a more cautious approach to managing aviation assets, particularly at smaller regional airports like Palomar.

A local advocacy group, Citizens for a Friendly Airport, has initiated legal action against the county, claiming violations of environmental regulations and challenging the county's authority over land use. Residents urged the City Council to consider pursuing similar legal measures to protect the community's interests and to reassess the conditional use permit granted to the county.

In addition to the airport discussions, the meeting also touched on the Planning Commission's role in reviewing construction and development projects, emphasizing the importance of understanding regional housing needs and growth management plans. As the city navigates these complex issues, residents are calling for decisive action to ensure their voices are heard and their safety prioritized.