To the editor:
The current controversy over housing adjacent to the Watsonville airport and the proposal to close down one of the runways has been a frequent theme for decades across the country in places there are small airports dedicated to light aircraft. The cities and towns welcome the airport and the business income it brings to their community, but are envious of the land it takes to operate an airport safely and object to the noise generated by the airport. Foolish communities start zoning vacant land for housing too close to the airport, using eminent domain to take land needed for safety around the airport and turn it into housing. Once it becomes housing, the residents complain about noise and safety issues, and want to get rid of the airport.
In this particular case, the “auxiliary” runway is not “auxiliary,” but actually a necessary runway for safety reasons. Takeoffs and landings should be done heading into the wind for maximum safety. Crosswind takeoffs and landings are done frequently, but require more pilot skill. Pilot flight training is a frequent activity at Watsonville, and it’s best practice to have trainee pilots take off and land into the wind.
Jeff Hill
Scotts Valley