Ventura County Airports

emerging markets for all-electric aircraft in Advanced Air Mobility, demonstrate that the future will look and sound quite different, especially to those who live around the two airports. “What we are trying to do is create thriving airports with smaller footprints,” Nafie explains. “We want to be good neighbors and make sure everyone has a voice, and we want to provide the best services possible. We are clearly a large economic driver for the area, not only in terms of creating jobs but in the economic output, which is $180 million a year for both airports combined. We are proud of what we do, and we support every initiative we can. For example, the Camarillo Wings Association just finished up a successful air show, the 40th annual Wings Over Camarillo Airshow.” Over 20,000 people visited the airfield over two days. Nafie adds, “One of the key things we do at the show is to have a STEM pavilion that offers kids the opportunities to get hands-on with aeronautics. They can fly drones, fly simulators, and they can have access to cockpits and interact with pilots. We do encourage getting that spark of passion moving and just seeing where it will lead.” Looking forward to the next few years, Nafie has a wish list that includes addressing aging infrastructure that needs to be replaced at both airports, inviting the development of new facilities with board rooms and public meeting spaces, new restaurant opportunities, and perhaps even a museum. Indeed, the future is filled with possibilities. VENTURA COUNTY A I RPORTS (OXNARD & CAMAR I LLO)