2016-17 Annual Report

The Aviation Division manages five airports that serve the general aviation community, corporate aircraft and both aviation and non-aviation businesses. These airports encompass over 5,000 acres of land and provide aviation facilities and services to hundreds of private and corporate tenants, aircraft users and businesses. The diverse group of general aviation Airports include one remote air-strip location and four community airports serving the aviation needs of local population centers. Each airport is unique and offers a variety of different services. WHAT WE DO

AVIATION

Blythe Airport is home to parachute training for military groups, hosting upwards of 300 people several times a year. This is not only a boost in fuel sales, but for the community of Blythe in the use of hotel rooms and restaurants. Hemet-Ryan Airport is home to Cal-Fire, one of the premiere helitack bases in the country. Centrally located in the Hemet Valley, it services the mountain communities as well as the Inland Empire to fight fires with the fleet of aircraft based in Hemet. French Valley Airport boasts the County’s most take-offs and landings per year and trains pilots in both fixed wing and rotor aircraft. Located within driving distance to the Temecula wineries, this brings many flying visitors to Southern California Wine Country. Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport is home to many high- end clients who enjoy the anonymity of flying into a small

airport in the Coachella Valley. This airport hosts the largest aircraft, including a Boeing 737. With the busy season from fall through spring, there is a seasonal increase in fuel sales during this time. Chiriaco Summit Airport offers no aircraft fuel services, although many travelers enjoy flying in for a relaxing lunch and cool beverage in the cafe operated by the Chiriaco family before heading to their destination. The General Patton Museum that is located there brings in many travelers off the freeway as well. The Aviation Division hosts annual air shows for the community providing a thrill to visitors enjoying a day of dazzling aerobatic performances, static displays and unique vendors. The air shows typically alternate locations between Hemet-Ryan Airport and the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport to support convenient access for our communities.

5,000 number of acres of County airport land coverage.

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