FAA certification inspection finds minor discrepancies at Santa Barbara Airport; staff to correct markings, vegetation and equipment

The Federal Aviation Administration completed its annual certification inspection of Santa Barbara Airport May 20–22 and identified four discrepancies that airport staff described as minor.

Director Hastert and Michael Smith, the airport operations manager, told the Airport Commission on June 12 that the FAA's findings included faded and worn taxiway centerline pavement markings, housekeeping issues at the fuel farm, overgrown vegetation along sections of the perimeter fence and one fire extinguisher that did not meet the recommended size.

Why it matters: FAA certification inspections check whether airports meet safety and operations standards for commercial service airports. While the airport received a letter of compliance, the inspection's findings and recommendations guide work that affects day-to-day safety, emergency response and compliance with federal requirements.

Michael Smith said the inspection is part of the airport's…