Airport Commission - June 16, 2026

The City of Santa Barbara Airport Commission held a meeting on June 16, 2026, where key procurement and capital improvement topics were discussed. The commission approved a lease amendment for Mercury Air Center to align the fuel farm lease with the FBO lease expiration in 2031, facilitating a coordinated future RFP process for Fixed Base Operators (FBOs). The commission also received a detailed update on the Long-Term Parking Lot South project, a significant capital improvement aimed at expanding parking capacity by 530 spaces, improving passenger convenience, and enhancing operational efficiency. The project, funded by local airport dollars and dipping slightly into reserves, includes permeable concrete pavement, security fencing, and lighting upgrades, with an emphasis on safety and compliance with FAA and TSA requirements. The commission discussed the integration of this project with future terminal improvements and the potential for a parking structure in the longer term, highlighting the strategic planning for airport infrastructure and operations.