SUP. HORVATH INTRODUCES MOTION TO STRENGTHEN SAFETY AT WHITEMAN AIRPORT
Los Angeles County owns and maintains Whiteman Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees air traffic control operations, pilot protocols, and navigable airspace, while the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is responsible for investigating aviation incidents, determining probable cause, and issuing safety recommendations.
“Residents deserve clear answers and confidence that every available safety measure is being considered. Los Angeles County owns and maintains Whiteman Airport, but critical aspects of aviation safety—air traffic control, pilot protocols, and airspace—are under federal authority,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “The Federal Aviation Administration plays a central role in those operations, and we need a full review, clear answers, and action to prevent this from happening again.”
Supervisor Horvath has formally sent letters to both the FAA and NTSB urging expedited review and coordination. In her letter to the FAA, she calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the incident and immediate coordination with the NTSB to identify any corrective actions. In her letter to the NTSB, she requests that the investigation be expedited to provide timely guidance on safety improvements.
In parallel, Supervisor Horvath’s motion directs the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works to take immediate action, including:
- Identify immediate actions the County can take to further strengthen safety at Whiteman Airport, building on recommendations from the Community Advisory Committee
- Report back within 7 days with timelines, costs, and potential funding sources
- Provide an outline of responsibilities across jurisdictions, including the FAA, NTSB, Los Angeles County, the City of Los Angeles, and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
- Detail applicable federal aviation regulations related to aircraft operations and pilot requirements, including their contingency plans during power outages or other similar disruptions.
Los Angeles County remains committed to working with federal and city partners, and the community to ensure transparency and continued improvements.
