San Diego County OKs United Airlines lease at Palomar Airport 4–1 after heated public debate

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted 4–1 on Dec. 10 to approve a three‑year ground lease with United Airlines for McClellan‑Palomar Airport, authorizing a director to execute the agreement and approving a first‑year partial fee waiver.

County Airports Director Jamie Abbott told the board staff had negotiated a standard commercial lease and recommended approval, saying, “We are here to present and seek your approval for a lease agreement with United Airlines.” Staff said United plans to operate Embraer 175 aircraft (about 70 seats) beginning March 30, 2026, with up to four daily departures (two to San Francisco and two to Denver) and that the county expects to receive more than $1 million a year in revenue after a first‑year fee waiver that reduces estimated receipts to roughly $538,722.

Why this matters: Supporters said renewed commercial service will boost North County jobs and connectivity without requiring the county to use general fund dollars. Opponents argued the lease risks changing the airport’s operational character, increases noise for nearby communities and may run afoul of the city of Carlsbad’s…