Long Beach Airport

Sun Aug 25 2024

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is located in Long Beach, California. Its origins date back to the early days of aviation and the airport has played an important role in the development of commercial and military aviation in Southern California.

However, like many urban airports, it has faced ongoing challenges and controversies related to its impact on surrounding communities, particularly concerning noise pollution, environmental effects, and its future growth.

History of Long Beach Airport

- Early Beginnings (1920s-1930s)

Long Beach Airport was established in 1923, initially as Daugherty Field, named after a local aviation pioneer, Earl S. Daugherty. The airport started as a small municipal airfield and quickly became an important hub for early aviation activities in the Los Angeles region. In 1928, it became a terminal for passenger flights, connecting Southern California with other parts of the country.

- World War II Era (1940s)

During World War II, Long Beach Airport played a significant role in the war effort. The airport's facilities were used by the U.S. Army Air Forces as an airfield for aircraft production, military training, and testing. The nearby Douglas Aircraft Company (now Boeing) manufactured thousands of military aircraft, including the iconic DC-3 and B-17 bombers. The post-war era saw the airport grow in both its commercial and military capacities.

- Post-War Commercial Growth (1950s-1970s)

Following the war, Long Beach Airport returned to civilian use, part of Southern California's aviation infrastructure. In the 1950s and 1960s, it expanded its commercial operations, serving as a secondary airport to nearby Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and providing flights across the country. The airport became known for its convenient location and shorter lines compared to LAX.

- Jet Era and Noise Regulations (1980s)

As jet aviation became more common in the 1960s and 1970s, the airport's operations expanded, leading to increased noise complaints from nearby residents. In response, Long Beach became one of the first airports in the US to adopt strict noise control regulations. In the early 1980s, the City of Long Beach implemented a Noise Ordinance, which limited the number of commercial flights allowed and imposed curfews on nighttime operations. These noise limits remain in effect today, making LGB one of the most strictly regulated airports in the US regarding noise levels.

- 1990s: Growth in Air Traffic and Strict Noise Regulations

The 1990s saw increased air traffic at Long Beach Airport as more passengers sought alternatives to larger, busier airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). However, the airport was (and still is), governed by the strict noise ordinance implemented in the early 1980s, which limits the number of commercial flights and imposes noise curfews. This ordinance was one of the first of its kind in the US and remains a central feature of LGB’s operations.

Noise Ordinance Overview: The ordinance capped the number of daily commercial flights at 41 and set limits on noise levels for departing and arriving aircraft. It also prohibited commercial flights between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, and general aviation flights between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM, to minimize disruption to the surrounding residential areas.
Community Concerns: Throughout the 1990s, nearby residents continued to push for strict enforcement of these noise limits, as commercial airlines and private jets increased their use of the airport. The tension between the airport’s desire to grow and the community’s demands for quiet remained a key issue.

- 2000s: The Arrival of JetBlue and Increased Commercial Activity

The 2000s marked a transformative period for Long Beach Airport, largely driven by the arrival of JetBlue Airways.

JetBlue Airways Begins Service (2001): In 2001, JetBlue chose Long Beach Airport as a West Coast hub, launching multiple daily flights to destinations across the U.S. The airline’s decision to make LGB a major operational base was a strategic move to capitalize on the airport’s convenient location, lack of congestion compared to LAX, and lower operating costs.
JetBlue quickly became the dominant carrier at LGB, using nearly all of the 41 daily flight slots allowed under the noise ordinance. This resulted in significant growth for the airport, as JetBlue’s low fares and direct flights attracted travelers from across Southern California.
Community Pushback on Noise: Despite the economic benefits, JetBlue’s expansion triggered an increase in noise complaints from residents. Although JetBlue complied with the noise limits, the sheer number of flights, combined with the proximity of the airport to densely populated neighborhoods, caused ongoing friction between the airline, the airport, and the community.

- 2010s: Expansion Proposals, JetBlue's Struggles, and Community Resistance

As JetBlue solidified its presence, discussions around airport expansion became more contentious. The 2010s saw debates over whether LGB should further develop its infrastructure and increase commercial flights, alongside increasing pressure from residents concerned about noise and environmental impacts.

Proposed International Terminal (2015-2017): One of the most significant proposals of the decade was JetBlue’s request to build a new international terminal at LGB to accommodate flights to destinations in Mexico and Central America.
JetBlue’s plan sparked an intense debate within the community. Proponents argued that an international terminal would further boost the local economy, create jobs, and improve travel options for residents. Opponents, however, feared that the expansion would lead to more noise, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution.
Ultimately, after two years of heated discussions and public hearings, the Long Beach City Council voted against the international terminal in January 2017, citing concerns over the airport’s impact on quality of life for nearby residents.

JetBlue's Decline and Departure (2020): While JetBlue initially thrived at Long Beach, by the late 2010s, it began facing challenges. The airline expressed frustration with the limited number of flight slots and the inability to grow further due to the noise ordinance and the rejection of the international terminal proposal. JetBlue started shifting some of its flights to LAX, where it had access to more slots and better opportunities for growth.

In October 2020, JetBlue announced that it would completely exit Long Beach Airport, relocating its operations to LAX. This was a major blow to LGB, as JetBlue had been the airport’s largest carrier for nearly two decades. The move was attributed to JetBlue’s desire to expand its network, serve more international routes, and operate without the constraints imposed by Long Beach’s noise regulations.

- 2020s: Post-JetBlue Era and Continued Debates

JetBlue’s departure opened the door for other airlines to increase their presence at LGB. In the wake of this transition, the airport has continued to be a focus of debate over noise, environmental concerns, and the balance between economic growth and community well-being.

New Airlines Filling the Void: After JetBlue’s exit, airlines such as Southwest, Delta, and American Airlines quickly moved to claim the vacated flight slots. Southwest, in particular, expanded its operations at LGB, offering more flights to popular destinations across the U.S.
Despite the increased activity from these airlines, LGB has maintained its relatively small size and continues to operate under the same noise ordinance that restricts flight numbers and times.
Community Tensions and Noise Complaints: Noise remains the central issue for residents living near the airport. The increase in private jet traffic and general aviation flights, which are less regulated than commercial flights, has led to a surge in noise complaints. Private jets, often associated with corporate travelers, can fly during hours when commercial flights are restricted, adding to residents' frustrations.
Environmental and Health Concerns: In addition to noise pollution, local communities have become increasingly vocal about the environmental impact of airport operations, particularly regarding air quality. Aircraft emissions contribute to air pollution, and with the surrounding areas already facing environmental challenges due to the nearby Port of Long Beach, the airport’s impact on public health has become a major concern.

Key Issues Represented for Nearby Communities

1. Noise Pollution:

- Noise Control Ordinances

Long Beach Airport's noise regulations have been a double-edged sword for both the airport and the surrounding community. While the Noise Ordinance has helped limit the total number of commercial flights (capped at 41 commercial flight slots per day at the time of writing), the growing popularity of air travel, combined with larger aircraft, has intensified noise pollution. The surrounding residential neighborhoods, including Bixby Knolls, Los Altos, and Lakewood Village, often report disruptions due to aircraft noise, especially during periods of peak traffic.

- Private and Charter Flights

While commercial flights are limited, there is a growing number of private jets, charter flights, and general aviation traffic that are less restricted by the noise ordinance. These flights, often associated with corporate travelers or private aviation, are a major source of complaints. Unlike commercial airlines, private jet operations are not subject to the same stringent noise curfews and restrictions, leading to late-night and early-morning disturbances.

2. Air Quality and Environmental Impact:

- Aircraft Emissions

In addition to noise concerns, the increased flight activity, especially from private jets, has led to heightened awareness of the environmental impact of airport operations. Aircraft emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), particulate matter, and nitrogen oxides (NOx), contribute to local air pollution and affect the health of residents living near the airport.

- Health Concerns in Surrounding Communities

Long Beach, part of the larger Los Angeles Basin, already struggles with air quality issues due to regional traffic, port operations, and industrial activities. The proximity of Long Beach Airport to residential areas exacerbates these concerns. Local residents have expressed worries about long-term health impacts, including respiratory issues, from increased exposure to air pollutants associated with aviation activity.

3. Debates Over Expansion and Growth:

- Balancing Demand with Local Concerns

As air travel has grown, there have been periodic discussions about expanding Long Beach Airport's commercial operations. In particular, airlines have lobbied for more commercial flight slots, but such requests have faced stiff resistance from local residents and environmental groups due to concerns over increased noise and environmental impacts.

- JetBlue's Operations and Departure

One of the key issues in recent years was the growing presence of JetBlue Airways, which became Long Beach's largest carrier. JetBlue's expansion was popular with passengers due to the convenience of Long Beach's location, but the airline also generated substantial noise complaints. In 2020, after a protracted battle over flight slots and community opposition to further expansion, JetBlue announced it would leave Long Beach and shift operations to LAX, largely due to the restrictions imposed by the Noise Ordinance.

- LGB's Future as a Regional Hub

With JetBlue's departure, other airlines such as Southwest and Delta have increased their presence at LGB. However, the community remains wary of any attempts to significantly increase the number of flights. Efforts to expand international flights or add new facilities have also met resistance from local residents who want to preserve the airport's relatively small size and mitigate its impact on the surrounding community.

4. Private Aviation and Economic Impacts:

- Rise of Corporate and Charter Flights

As private aviation has grown, Long Beach Airport has become a popular hub for corporate jets and charter operations. These flights contribute to increased noise and air pollution. Unlike commercial flights, private aviation is not subject to the same regulatory constraints, leading to a perception that wealthier travelers can bypass the rules that limit noise and traffic for the broader community.

5. Sustainability and Future Developments:

- Pressure for Greener Aviation

Local residents and environmental groups have called for more aggressive action to reduce the environmental footprint of the airport. This includes urging airlines to use cleaner, quieter aircraft, pushing for stricter limits on private jets, and advocating for the development of more sustainable aviation practices.

Ongoing Community Tensions and Legal Challenges

- Lawsuits and Legal Disputes

The push and pull between airport growth and community interests has led to numerous legal disputes over the years. Homeowners and neighborhood associations have filed lawsuits against the airport and the city of Long Beach, demanding stricter enforcement of noise regulations and opposing expansion plans. In response, the airport has taken steps to comply with noise abatement measures, but tensions remain high.

- Political and Community Activism

Local politicians, particularly those representing neighborhoods near the airport, have been vocal in advocating for stricter regulations on flight operations, especially for private aviation. Grassroots organizations like the Long Beach Neighborhoods First and Saner have organized protests and campaigns to limit further airport growth and to preserve the quality of life for residents living under flight paths.

Conclusion

Long Beach Airport's history has been deeply intertwined with the development of Southern California's aviation industry since the beginnings, but its presence in a densely populated area has led to extreme challenges regarding noise pollution, air quality, and community relations. While the airport plays a role in the local economy, the surrounding communities have consistently pushed back against efforts to expand its operations.

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