San Fernando Airport: Valley Aviation History in a Compact City
San Fernando Airport (FAA identifier: SFR) served as a general aviation field within the small city of San Fernando, California, occupying a compact site in the northeastern San Fernando Valley near the communities of Mission Hills, Sylmar, and Pacoima. San Fernando — one of the smallest incorporated cities in California, entirely surrounded by the city of Los Angeles — used its airport to provide local aviation access during the mid-20th century, a period when small municipal airports were common features of Southern California cities that could afford to maintain them. SFR provided basic general aviation services including flight training and aircraft storage for the Valley's northeastern communities during its operational years.
The San Fernando Valley's transformation from agricultural land to dense suburban development through the postwar decades put pressure on many small airports, and SFR ultimately ceased operations as the land value and urban density made continued aviation use economically and operationally impractical. The site was redeveloped for other uses. Today, pilots and aviation enthusiasts in the San Fernando area use the nearby Whiteman Airport (WHP) in Pacoima, approximately 3 miles to the east, which continues to serve the northeastern Valley GA community that SFR once helped support. The San Fernando Valley's aviation heritage is extensive, reflecting a century of flight activity in an area that grew from orange groves to one of the most populous suburban regions in the United States.
Is San Fernando Airport (SFR) still operating?
San Fernando Airport is no longer operational. The airport ceased aviation use as urban development pressure in the San Fernando Valley made continued operation impractical. Pilots in the San Fernando area now use Whiteman Airport (WHP) in nearby Pacoima or Van Nuys Airport (VNY) for general aviation operations.
What is the nearest operating airport to the city of San Fernando?
Whiteman Airport (WHP) in Pacoima is the nearest general aviation airport to the city of San Fernando, located approximately 3 miles to the east. Van Nuys Airport (VNY) is approximately 7 miles to the west. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) for commercial service is approximately 8 miles to the south.
What cities surround San Fernando in the San Fernando Valley?
The city of San Fernando is completely surrounded by the city of Los Angeles. The surrounding Los Angeles neighborhoods include Sylmar to the north, Pacoima to the east, Mission Hills to the west, and Arleta to the south. Despite its small area (2.4 square miles), San Fernando is a fully incorporated city with its own city government, separate from the City of Los Angeles.
San Fernando Airport - SFR Contact Information
Address, Phone Number, and Hours for an Airports in San Fernando, California.
| Name | San Fernando Airport - SFR |
| Address | 2 Park Avenue, San Fernando CA 91340 Map |
| Phone | |
| Website | |
| Hours |
Map of San Fernando Airport - SFR
Airports near San Fernando
About San Fernando Airport - SFR
The San Fernando Airport - SFR, located in San Fernando, CA, is an Airport serving the Los Angeles County area. The Airport facilities include terminals, hangars, maintenance facilities, and control towers. The Airport offers parking facilities, retail and dining services, access to local hotels, and transport options like rental cars, buses, and taxis. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees the Airport in San Fernando.
- Terminal maps, gate assignments, and airline contacts at San Fernando Airport - SFR
- Parking rates, shuttle schedules, and ground transportation options
- Lost and found inquiries for items left in the terminal or on aircraft
- Noise complaints, facility accessibility accommodations, and airport administration
External Links:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How early should I arrive at the airport?
Most of the time, you should get to the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and at least three hours before your international flight. This will allow you enough time to check in, pass through security, and make your way to your gate.
2. What should I do if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
If your flight is delayed or canceled, you should contact your airline as soon as possible. They will usually tell you what your options are, which could include getting a refund or rebooking on a later flight.
3. What is clear at the airport?
Clear is a TSA pre-check program that speeds up the security screening process for low-risk travelers who have already been approved.
Members of the Clear program are able to use dedicated security lanes where they do not have to remove items such as shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. This process allows for a faster and more convenient screening experience for Clear members.
To become a member of Clear, an individual must provide their biographic information and fingerprints for a background check, and then pay an annual fee.
4. Are masks required in airports?
The TSA will no longer require airport employees or patrons to wear a face covering or face mask inside the airport terminal or on airport-operated ground transportation.
5. Can you bring food through airport security?
Yes, you can bring food through airport security.
Solid foods like sandwiches, fruits, and granola bars, are allowed in your carry-on and checked baggage.
Some liquid and gel-like foods, such as yogurt, jelly, and hummus, are also permitted in your carry-on bag as long as they are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less.
6. How much is airport parking?
The cost of airport parking can vary greatly depending on the airport, the length of time you will be parked, and the type of parking spot you choose.
On average, hourly parking rates can range from $1-$4 per hour, while daily rates can range from $8-$30 per day. Long-term parking rates can range from $8-$20 per day.
7. Can I leave the airport during a layover?
Yes, If your layover is long enough, you may be able to leave the airport and explore the destination city. It's also a good idea to check with your airline to see if they offer any tours or other options for passengers with long layovers.
8. Can I sleep in an airport?
Yes, you can sleep in an airport, however, the amenities and comfort levels of sleeping in an airport can vary greatly depending on the airport you are in.
Some airports also offer amenities like sleeping pods, capsule hotels and lounges for passengers who want to rest or sleep before their flight. Some airlines also offer resting rooms or lounges for their premium customers.