Friday 12-19-09

Two F/A-18 Hornets landed in formation on rwy 30 at about 5:05pm and parked at Signature.

A third F/A-18 Hornet landed about 5:20pm and also parked at Signature.

Monday 12-14-09

AML Leasing LLC Gulfstream G550 N55AL (c/n 5229) arrived from Van Nuys (KVNY) at 4:25pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Wilmington Trust Co Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N251MM (c/n 1495) returned from a test flight at 7:54pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Airport breaks ground on new parking garage

LONG BEACH - Officials broke ground Thursday on a nearly 2,000-space parking garage at Long Beach Airport that is expected to ease congestion at a facility long plagued by a lack of on-site parking.

The $48 million structure, expected to be completed by early 2011, will add nearly 1,000 spots to an area just steps from the main terminal, said Maricela de Rivera, an airport spokeswoman.

The first phase will add 247 slots by summer, with the entire structure adding 989 spots where less than 1,000 now exist on two ground-level lots (known as lots B and C) off Donald Douglas Drive, the airport's primary entry route.

The five-level, 1,989-slot structure is being financed through a 30-year bond expected to cost about $4.2million annually. Money generated by parking fees will pay for the bonds.

In addition, Lot D, a site the airport rents north of the property, will be closed once the new garage is complete.

Officials have also made plans to increase the garage's size to accommodate another 3,000 or so parking spots, but only after 2016 and only if necessary, de Rivera said.

Right now, the airport handles a maximum of 41 passenger flights and 25 commuter flights daily - averaging about 3.5 million passengers annually.

Currently, airport parking is a mishmash of small, uncovered lots, a mid-sized garage and an off-site lot requiring shuttle service to the main terminal.

The new garage is part of a makeover of the 1930s-era airport, given a green light earlier this year following the city's legal victory in a federal courtroom.

A group known as the Long Beach Parent-Teacher Association, which included the Long Beach Unified School District, had sued the city, arguing an environmental impact report examining the effects of terminal and parking garage expansion didn't properly account for potential noise impacts on area schools.

In May, California's Fourth District Court of Appeals rejected the argument, paving the way for Thursday's ground-breaking.

(Press Telegram)

Thursday 12-10-09

Gulfstream G-IV HB-IWY (c/n 1176) arrived from Palm Beach Intl (KPBI) at 2:29pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

A NASA T-38 departed at 3:10pm after being parked at Signature.

Monday 12-7-09

Southwest Sportsjet LLC Boeing 757-236 N757SS arrived from Dallas Love Field (KDAL) at 5:10pm and parked at Signature. The plane brought in the Dallas Stars hockey team.

Thursday 12-3-09

NetJets Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N408QS (c/n 1308) arrived at 4:51pm from Mc Clellan Airfield (KMCC) and parked at Gulfstream.

Friday 11-6-09

Allegiant Air MD-83 N871GA (c/n 53296/1937) ferried in from Mc Carran Intl (KLAS) as AAY4402 at 8:00am. The plane departed at 8:59am to Grand Canyon Arpt (KGCN) as AAY4403 with a group of japanese tourests.

Fitch Rates Long Beach Airport, California's Sr Lien 'A-'

NEW YORK, Nov 05, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fitch Ratings has withdrawn its implied 'A-' long-term rating on Long Beach Airport, California (LGB or the airport). The rating withdrawal is in conjunction with the assignment of an 'A-' rating to the following bonds:

--Long Beach Airport Bureau (CA) senior airport revenue bonds, series 2009A;

--Long Beach Airport Bureau (CA) senior airport revenue refunding bonds, series 2009B.

The bonds are being issued under a new master senior trust indenture and are secured by net revenues generated at the airport, including transfers which are not to exceed 25% of annual debt service on the outstanding bonds. Bond proceeds will be used to fund the construction of a parking garage, refund a portion of the department's outstanding subordinate commercial paper notes, refund all of the airport's 1993 certificates of participation (COPs), and fund reserve accounts. The Rating Outlook is Stable.

The 'A-' rating reflects the airport's location and the underlying demand within the greater Los Angeles air trade service area, favorable enplanement trends even in the current economic downturn, strong financial performance supported by diverse business lines, and low cost facilities for passenger airlines. The airport's passenger base is 98% origination and destination (O&D), exhibits solid and growing demand for air passenger service to a considerable mix of both business and leisure destinations, and the airport has an adequate balance sheet characterized by a low debt burden and solid liquidity levels. Credit concerns include the higher than average carrier concentration level (79% by JetBlue Airways), near term additional leveraging in order to support JetBlue's airline operations, a competitive region served by multiple airports, increased dependence on passenger facility charge (PFC) revenues to cover future debt service, and the overall current state of the airline industry and regional economy.


For the whole article, go to: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/fitch-rates-long-beach-airport-californias-sr-lien-a-outlook-stable-2009-11-05?siteid=nbkh

Wednesday 11-4-09

Miami Air 737-81Q N733MA (c/n 30619/856) arrived as BSK387 at 11:19am from Nashville Intl (KBNA) and parked at Signature. The plane brought in the Nashville Predators Hockey team. The plane ferried out at 12:58pm as BSK549 to Los Angeles Intl (KLAX).

JetBlue E190 lands at LGB with Flat Tire

JetBlue Airways E190 N190JB (c/n 19000011) departed Portland Intl (KPDX) yesterday afternoon and had a tire go flat on take off. The pilots elected to continue to Long Beach and did a couple of flybys for maintenance to confirm that the right rear tire was flat. The plane landed safely at about 4:30pm without any issues and was towed to the gate.

JetBlue Special A320s at LGB

Today we had both the Yahoo Blackberry A320, N651JB "Beta Blue" and the newly painted N561JB, "La Vie en Blue" at LGB. N561JB carries the new tail design called "Blueberries" with newer bigger titles on the fuselauge.

Thursday 10-15-09

The Edwards AFB C-17 that was parked by the tower departed today about 9:10am and did a wing wave as it departed.

Southwest Airlines 737-7H4 N211WN (c/n 34163/1699) arrived as SWA7580 from Biggs Aaf (Fort Bliss) (KBIF) at 1:24pm. The plane brought in military troops returning from duty in Iraq. The aircraft ferried out as SWA8613 at 2:07pm to El Paso (ELP/KELP).

Wednesday 10-14-09

AC Travel LLC Gulfstream G550 N388AC (c/n 5125) arrived at 8:12pm from San Francisco Intl (KSFO) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N408QS

October 17th Long Beach Aviation History

Oct. 14, 1992 – Spruce Goose leaves Long Beach for the Evergreen Aviation Museum in McMinnville, Oregon. The Flying Boat sailed north through the Pacific Ocean. After traveling 980 nautical miles, 20 miles off the coasts of California and Oregon at an average speed of 8 knots, the control surfaces, horizontal stabilizers, wings, vertical tail, and fuselage arrived in Portland, Oregon at sundown October 18. Thousands of people celebrated the arrival with an official proclamation of “Spruce Goose” Day on October 22, at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

The water levels of the Willamette River delayed the Flying Boat’s trip from Portland to McMinnville. The water was either too high for passage under bridges or too low for migration from the river to land. The large pieces remained in storage for several months. So crews pulled the barge carrying the mammoth Flying Boat to an industrial park in Vancouver, Washington and off-loaded it for storage to await adequate river levels to complete the journey upriver to McMinnville. Finally, conditions improved and the Flying Boat slowly made her way up river, setting new records at historic Willamette Falls, for the longest and highest load ever to pass through the locks. After landing near Dayton, Oregon and off loading at the Weston Bar, the caravan of pieces stretched more than 1,500 feet down the narrow road.

The Flying Boat arrived in McMinnville at Evergreen International Aviation on February 27, 1993. A Spruce Goose homecoming parade converged down the final mile of the 138-day, 1,055-mile trip from Long Beach.

JetBlue Introduces "Blueberries" and Will Retire "Plaid"

Last night in front of over 500 crewmembers in Orlando, JetBlue introduced the newest tail scheme called "Blueberries" on aircraft N561JB (c/n 1927). The company also made the name JetBlue larger along the windows forward of the wing which is now all blue instead of the silver and blue like the old titles. On the engine, www.jetblue.com is gone replaced with just jetblue.com in a larger font which is easier to see.

Here is a link to a photo taken of the plane after the event was done: http://www.airliners.net/photo/JetBlue-Airways/Airbus-A320-232/1593936/L/

Here is a link showing how the current titles and engine logo look:

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=6087703

At the same time, the company has decided to retire the "Plaid" tail scheme which is worn on aircraft N585JB to N603JB. The company said the following to employees: "Plaid’s design is perfectly in keeping with our brand, but here’s the problem – painting the darn thing on our tails is too cumbersome! It takes more paint to do a Plaid tailfin than Stripes, for example, and it takes longer to complete a Plaid design. Also – with that much more paint being used, it adds weight to the tail, which affects fuel efficiency." Looks like maybe the new tail scheme will be placed on those aircraft as well as those numbered N561JB to N584JB.

JetBlue Airways To Introduce New Livery

JetBlue Airways will introduce a complete new livery tomorrow night (October 13) in Orlando.

Here is the message to the employees:

Over the years we’ve made our mark on the industry with a distinctive look – uniforms, signage, and tailfin patterns like mosaic, stripes, harlequin and windowpane. To keep our look fresh as we approach our 10th birthday, we’ll be introducing a new aircraft tailfin and fuselage paint scheme (livery) on Tuesday in Orlando – and you’re invited!

Join Dave Barger and your fellow Crewmembers at the LiveTV Hangar at Orlando International Airport for this exciting event on Tuesday evening. Be the first to experience the sharp new look that our fleet will soon be sporting!

Friday 10-9-09

Gulfstream Aerospace Gulfstream G100 N749GA (c/n 149) arrived from Savannah/Hilton Head Intl (KSAV) at 6:02pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

NetJets Gulfstream G550 N534QS (c/n 5103) arrived from Bob Hope (KBUR) at 7:08pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N7UF

Long Beach Studios deal with Boeing to be signed Monday, chairman says

LONG BEACH - A much-hyped movie studio is in, a studio executive said Friday, and a Tesla Motors assembly plant may be out at the former Boeing 717 manufacturing site.

Long Beach Studios Chairman Jack O'Halloran said he expects to sign a deal with Boeing on Monday to develop a $375 million movie studio at the 77-acre site, which ceased production in 2006.

"The film studio's definitely happening, it's going to happen," O'Halloran said by phone.

The project, announced a year ago, encountered financial problems and fell out of escrow in March.

Further casting doubt on the project's future was an announcement by electric car manufacturer Tesla Motors in August that the Boeing site and the Downey Studios property were finalists for a new assembly plant.

O'Halloran said the Long Beach project will be the hub of a chain of five movie studios that will be built around the country.

"Which means all the people, the jobs, the training, everything will come out of Long Beach," said O'Halloran, a former boxer and actor who is best known for playing Non, a villain in the movie "Superman2." "It's an amazing deal, it's better than we thought it was going to be and it's phenomenal for Long Beach."

O'Halloran wouldn't give further details, noting that the deal isn't signed yet. City officials have said the movie studio is expected to create 2,500 to 3,000 jobs.

Given that fact, Mayor Bob Foster was guarded in his response Friday.

"I want to see a deal that's inked," Foster said.

John Morris, owner of Smooth's Sports Grille, said Friday that when O'Halloran was eating at the restaurant Thursday the movie studio executive showed Morris a letter of commitment from O'Halloran's investors.

If all goes as O'Halloran plans, when the movie studio is completed it would contain "40 soundstages ranging in size from 12,000 to 200,000 square feet, and over 300,000 square feet of full-service rental office space," according to the Long Beach Studios Web site, www.longbeachstudiosllc.com. The site also says the studio site would have a 5-star hotel spa.

What this all means for Tesla - and Downey, which has been aggressively courting the company - isn't clear.

Foster said that Tesla and Boeing met about a week ago, so some negotiations for the 717 site may still be in the works. The mayor said the movie studio or Tesla could be a boon for Long Beach.

"I just want to make sure that we get a business in there that is very productive and beneficial to the city," Foster said.

Representatives from Boeing and Tesla didn't return phone calls seeking comment Friday evening.

Reached by phone Friday night, Downey Mayor Mario Guerra said his city is in negotiations with Tesla but wouldn't say how close they are to a deal.

Tesla is looking for a production site for its new Model S, a four-door all-electric family sedan. CEO Elon Musk has said the car plant could create 1,000 to 1,200 jobs.

The Bay Area company based in San Carlos is known for its Tesla Roadster, a two-door all-electric sports car. Musk said that when Tesla begins production on the next-generation sports car in 2013, the work likely will take place at the new plant as well.

(Press Telegram)

Thursday 10-8-09

USAF Boeing C-17A 07-7188 (c/n P-188) did 4 missed approaches for rwy 30. The first one was done at 11:20am, then 11:30am, then 11:40am, and finally at 11:50am. The crew used the call sign "Aries 20" while flying.

Robinson R44 Raven I Helicopter PP-PRL has been doing practice approaches to pad 3.

Wednesday 10-7-09

Gulfstream G550 HZ-ALFA was towed from the paint shop to the Gulfstream ramp at 6:56pm.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N500N

LB Airport Announces the Quieter Home Program & Website

Today, the Long Beach Airport, in connection with the City of Long Beach, is implementing a Residential Sound Attenuation Program for aircraft noise impacted areas within the 65 dB Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) contour. The program will be known as the QuieterHome Program (Program).

The 2008 65 dB CNEL contour identified 27 homes as eligible for the Program, all of which are near the arrival end of the Airport's main runway 30-12.

Funding for the Program is being made available by Long Beach Airport, using FAA approved Passenger Facility Charges (PFC). The funding will be used to install acoustical treamtents to lessen the effects of aircraft noise in the impacted homes. The acoustical treatments can include the installation of acoustic windows and exterior doors, insulation, ventilation, and air conditioning. The goal of the Program is to achieve a 45 dB interior noise level within each home.

An annual review will be conducted of the Program's 65 db CNEL contour and treatment areas will be adjusted accordingly. Detailed information on the QuieterHome Program is available on the Airport's website, www.lgb.org, click on Community Relations and then QuieterHome. Residents can also obtain information via the Program's toll-free line at 888-739-4090, or the Airport's Public Affairs Office at 562 570-2678.

**This information is provided by the Long Beach Airport Public Affairs Office on October 7, 2009.**

Tuesda 10-6-09

Gulfstream G550 N554GA (c/n 5254) (green) arrived from Savannah/Hilton Head Intl (KSAV) as GLF55 at 9:22am and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Video: F-18's departing LGB

This video was shot on Sunday 10-4-09 by a co-worker of mine. The planes departed between 1:10pm and 1:20pm.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRGDr56U3bM&feature=youtube_gdata

Friday 10-2-09

NetJets Gulfstream G450 (c/n 4054) arrived from John Wayne Airport (KSNA) at 1:25pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp. The plane departed at 4:40pm to Edmonton Int'l (CYEG/YEG).

Wednesday 9-30-09

NetJets Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N436QS (c/n 1436) arrived from John Wayne Airport (KSNA) at 4:25pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. Gulfstream G100 N749GA (c/n 149) arrived from Outagamie County Regional (KATW) at 4:45pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Los Angeles County Fire Department Type I Sikorsky S70-A Firehawk helicopter N190LA #19 (c/n 70-2479) arrived about 5:00pm and parked near the Sherriff's ramp. The helicopter departed at 5:13pm.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N552WF

Tuesda 9-29-09

NetJets Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N499QS (c/n 1299) departed from the Gulfstream ramp at 7:55pm headed to San Francisco Intl (KSFO).

Horizon Airlines has two CRJ700's that are broken and staying overnight. N612QX (c/n 10042) is parked on pad 9 with two broken hydraulic brake lines on the right main gear. N603QX (c/n 10011) is parked on pad 5 with an engine deicing restriction so the plane could not ferry to Seattle due to there being icing conditions forcasted there tonight.

Friday 9-25-09

NATO C-17A 08-0003 (F-211), departed just after 1:00pm on a test flight and returned at 6:05pm.

Thursday 9-24-09

NetJets Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N422QS (c/n 1322) arrvied from Santa Monica Muni (KSMO) at 5:50pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Alaska Airlines 737-890 N526AS (c/n 35196/2862) arrived from Metropolitan Oakland Intl (KOAK) as ASA7618 at 6:40pm and parked at AirFlite. The plane brought in the Oakland A's baseball team. The plane ferried out at 7:30pm as ASA9003 to Los Angeles Intl (KLAX). As a side note, the Oakland A's are one of several teams who were using Pace Airlines who shut down last week. Looks like maybe Alaska might fly the A's around for the remainder of the season.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N71TV, N450XX,

Thursday 9-17-09

The second NATO C-17 (F-210) 08-0002 got delivered today about 12:30pm and did a fly-by with a wing wave.

The new State of Kuwait Gulfstream G550 9K-GFA was towed from the paint shop to the Gulfstream service center at 4:37pm.

Allegiant Air MD-87 N984MA arrived at 5:25pm from Laughlin/Bullhead Intl (KIFP) as AAY5174. The planed ferried out to San Diego Intl (KSAN) at 6:10pm as AAY5174.

Tail number noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N110ED

Tuesday 9-15-09

Royal Air Force (RAF) VC-10 XV104 (c/n 834) arrived at 3:55pm and parked at Signature. The plane dropped off a couple of small boxes and departed about 4:20pm for Travis AFB (KSUU).

L&L Manufacting Gulfstream G150 N46WY(c/n 276) arrived from Jackson Hole (KJAC) at 4:10pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Monday 9-14-09

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N450XX, N218EC, N443M

Thursday 9-10-09

Gulfstream Aerospace Services Corp. Israel IAI-1125 Astra SP N247PS (c/n 069) arrived at 4:05pm from Savannah/Hilton Head Intl (KSAV) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp. Here is a link to a picture of the aircraft:

http://www.airliners.net/photo/Israel-IAI-1125A-Astra/1312254/L/

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N111CQ

Tuesday 9-8-09

Gulfstream G550 N351GA (c/n 5251) arrived from Savannah/Hilton Head Intl (KSAV) at 1:13pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Monday 8-31-09

The second Qatar C-17 departed on a test flight at 3:32pm. The plane returned about 4:25pm.

NetJets Gulfstream G-V N502QS arrived at 3:44pm from Camarillo (KCMA) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

UPS brought in a 757-200 today which arrived as UPS2916 from Louisville Intl (KSDF).

Saturday 8-29-09

Four F/A-18 Hornets belonging to VMA-232, the Red Devils arrived at 12:05pm and parked at Signature. Two planes departed at at 12:45pm and the second two departed at 1:15pm.

Allegiant Air MD-83 N866GA arrived as AAY4291 at 7:57pm from Helena Rgnl (KHLN). The plane ferried to McCarran Intl (KLAS) as AAY4929 at 8:35pm.

JetBlue to Add More Flights From LB to Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug 27, 2009 -- JetBlue Airways will ramp up its popular service at San Francisco International Airport this winter, adding five new daily nonstop flights to its schedule in response to strong demand for its premium low-fare product.

Beginning in January, award-winning JetBlue will add two daily nonstop flights from San Francisco to its West Coast focus city at L.A.'s Long Beach Airport (for a total of five daily flights); a second daily nonstop flight to its focus city at Boston's Logan International Airport; and a second daily nonstop flight to the airline's acclaimed home at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal Five. As previously announced, JetBlue will also begin San Francisco's first nonstop service to its Fort Lauderdale, Fla. focus city beginning Nov. 17, 2009.

"JetBlue is proud to be expanding in San Francisco to give our loyal customers more flight options to their favorite destinations," said Robin Hayes, JetBlue's chief commercial officer. "What could be better for travelers than more JetBlue flights with more legroom in coach (a), unlimited free snacks and drinks, and more free live entertainment choices (b) than the other guys, not to mention some of the industry's most celebrated customer service?"

New flight for Oakland

Across the bay, JetBlue also plans to add an additional nonstop flight from Long Beach to Oakland in January (for a total of 4 daily flights).

Loss of LGB-SJC

JetBlue will end the unprofitable San Jose - Long Beach route in January. This service has underperformed since it launched and is losing money. The company will continue to offer nonstop service from San Jose to JFK -- the only nonstop flight between Silicon Valley and New York.

(MarketWatch)

Tuesday 8-25-09

NetJets Gulfstream G-IV N460QS (c/n 1360) arrived at 2:49pm from Santa Monica Muni (KSMO) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

NetJets Gulfstream G450 N450QS (c/n 4046) arrived at 7:27pm from Van Nuys (KVNY) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Video of a UPS 767-300ER taking off on rwy 30: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4h26mXWQfw

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: VH-CCC

Monday 8-24-09

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N428QS, N506QS, N130TM, N284SD, N3050

C-17 staff to rally for plane Thursday

LONG BEACH - The way George Burden sees it, the effort to save the Boeing C-17 is not just about those fighting to stay employed.

"We're concerned about our state, Long Beach and the impact it would have on us," said Burden, political director of the United Auto Workers Local 148, which represents C-17 line workers.

"With me, it's not about jobs, jobs, jobs. Everybody's looking for a job these days. It's about why would we cede the airplane we build to a foreign country?"

The UAW plans to stage a rally in support of the threatened cargo plane program at 2:45 p.m. Thursday in front of the Boeing Fitness Center, 2019 E. Wardlow Road. The event, which will take place during a shift change to maximize attendance, is expected to draw 700 to 1,000 people.

Rep. Laura Richardson, D-Long Beach, members of the City Council, the Teamsters Union and business people that depend on Boeing employees are expected to attend.

Though the event is being organized by the Lakewood-based union local, Boeing management also plans to participate. Jean Chamberlin, Boeing's vice president and manager of global mobility programs, the head of the C-17 program, accepted an invitation to address the workers.

"She's very appreciative of the effort by the union and the employees," said Boeing Co. spokesman Jerry Drelling.

The goal is to call attention to the federal budgetary threats to the C-17 and the effect it could have on Long Beach, Lakewood and surrounding areas, as well as communities nationwide dependent on the program.

Boeing employs about 5,800 workers in the Long Beach-based C-17 program. About 1,700 workers are represented by the UAW.

"We're really in kind of a predicament with sales," Burden said.

Boeing has said it needs 15 U.S. Air Force orders next year to keep the program going.

The House of Representatives included only three orders for the airlifter in its 2010 budget.

"The Senate reconvenes next month, so we're hoping they will add 15 C-17s to the budget when all is said and done," Drelling said.

Foreign orders alone cannot keep the program running because costs rise when fewer C-17s are built, he added.

(Press Telegram)

August 18th Long Beach Aviation History

Aug. 18, 1958 – The first United Airlines jetliner was a Douglas DC-8-21, N8004U (c/n 45281/8) and was christened “City of Long Beach”. The plane was delivered 5/29/59.

Monday 8-17-09

DIHE Inc Cessna Citation N191VE (560-0150) arrived at 3:14pm from Henderson Executive (KHND) and had its nose gear collapse upon landing and stopped just short of taxiway Kilo on rwy 30. All traffic for rwy 30 was reallocated to rwy 25R.

Here is a link to a video taken this afternoon of JetBlue flight 283 landing on rwy 25R: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jI5I3JmWbQ

It has been reported that Gulfstream G550 B-KCK (c/n 5228) delivered from LGB via Luton, England. The plane departed at 5:57pm local. Any confirmation is welcome.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N748GA (green, c/n 5248), B-KCK (c/n 5228)

August 16th Long Beach Aviation History

Aug. 16, 1930 – 1st Women’s Air Derby begins. Starting point is the Long Beach airport.

Long Beach Airport to get $4.3 million for improvements

LONG BEACH - Long Beach Airport will receive $4.3 million in federal grant money to upgrade the area where planes idle during the boarding process, officials said Thursday.

The office of U.S. Rep. Laura Richardson, D-Long Beach, announced the federal grant to improve the air carrier ramp.

Christine Edwards, the airport's operations bureau manager, said the new funding is essential to move forward with the improvements.

"It's basically what is getting us going with the project," she said.

In a statement, Richardson said, "This funding is a welcome relief for Long Beach and the businesses that support the local travel industry as well."

The money will be used to fully replace the asphalt areas of the air carrier ramp with concrete, which is more durable and longer-lasting, Edwards said.

Besides its shorter life, asphalt is inferior because depressions can develop over time as planes sit on the surface, Edwards said.

"We are constantly patching an asphalt ramp," Edwards said. "And a normal life of asphalt pavement is somewhere between 10 and 20 years.

"We have concrete pavement on the airport in some areas that dates back to the late 1930s and is still in use," she added.

Edwards said that the work will be done in phases, with a target completion date of 2013. The project will create about 120 jobs, she added.

"These are jobs that are not going to go away real quickly," she said. "Somebody is going to be hired and have work likely for several years."

The funding also will be used to electrify the air carrier ramp, allowing idling aircraft to operate on auxiliary power rather than engine fuel as they wait for passengers to board and deplane, she added.

The new system also will pump air into the planes so that they won't have to run their air-conditioning on the ground, she said.

It's cheaper for air carriers to use electricity, rather than fuel, to power airplanes on the ramp, she said.

The new system also would be better for the environment, as it would reduce fuel emissions, Edwards added.

"Because of the concerns about the environment and global warming, more and more airports are transitioning to this," she said. "As far as smaller airports go, we are probably one of the earlier ones to go to in-ground air and in-ground power."

(Press Telegram)

JetBlue Offers Unlimited Flights for $599

-- Today through Aug. 21*, customers can purchase a flight pass to visit as many destinations as often as they like between Sept. 8 and Oct. 8, 2009(a) --

-- Jetters will have access to every available seat, on every flight and can book travel or make changes up to three days before departure --

NEW YORK, Aug. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- What would you do with an All-You-Can-Jet pass on JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU)? Today through August 21*, customers can purchase an unlimited travel pass for only $599(a), which will allow them to visit any of the airline's 56 international and domestic destinations as often as they like between September 8 and October 8, 2009. Pass holders will have access to every available seat on every flight with no blackout dates, and can book travel up to three days prior to departure through October 5(a). Thirty-five TrueBlue points from the airline's customer loyalty program will also be awarded with the purchase of an All-You-Can-Jet pass.

"The All-You-Can-Jet pass gives jetsetters access to a bigwig lifestyle, with 56 destinations and more than 150 jets available at a moment's notice," said Robin Hayes, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for JetBlue Airways. "Get extra face time with an important client; become a groupie for your favorite band; grab a ticket to the away games; extend summer with some extra rays in the Caribbean; take a spontaneous trip to see the extended family; or grab some genuine jambalaya or clam chowder. You can do it all as often as you like in a month without emptying your pockets. It's our answer to the ultimate road trip."

Customers who purchase a pass can book new travel or make changes or cancellations to previous pass reservations without penalty up to three days before departure. All travel using the All-You-Can-Jet pass must be booked between Aug. 12 and Oct. 5(a). Changes or cancellations made less than three days before departure will be subject to JetBlue's $100 change/cancel fee. All pass purchases can be made by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583).

Customers must be TrueBlue members to take advantage of the pass. For more information about TrueBlue, or to register to become a member, visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue.

All-You-Can-Jet pass holders can book flights by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583) and providing reservations crewmembers with their pass holder number, which they will receive after purchasing the pass. The pass is inclusive of taxes and fees for all domestic flights.

Additional taxes and fees for Puerto Rico and international flights are not included. Customers can upgrade to Even More Legroom seats on each flight for an additional $10, $25 or $40, depending on the flight length. Other terms and conditions apply(a). Additional information is available at http://www.jetblue.com/deals/all-you-can-jet/tc.pdf.

August 14th Long Beach Aviaition History

Aug. 14, 1940 – Douglas announces plans for new plant in Long Beach, which will employ 20,000.

Thursday 8-13-09

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N860AA, N508QS, N733GA (in hangar)

August 12th Long Beach Aviation History

Aug. 12, 1930 – Frank Hawks of Long Beach sets west-east flight mark, crosses US in 12 hrs. and 25 min.

Monday 8-10-09

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N663PD, N851GG

Sunday 8-9-09

3 F/A-18 Hornets were parked at Signature and departed at 10:54am. They arrived back at 11:45am and then departed again at 12:35pm. 2 of them returned at 1:45pm and departed for the final time at 3:12pm.

Gulfstream G550 N928GC (c/n 5239) was towed from the Gulfstream paint shop to the Gulfstream ramp at 3:26pm.

Southwest Sportsjet LLC Boeing 757-236 N757SS departed at 5:14pm to Cleveland-Hopkins Intl (KCLE) with the Texas Rangers Baseball team.

Continental Airlines Boeing 737-824 N39297 arrived from Boeing Field Intl (KBFI) as COA1911 at 8:02pm and parked at Signature. The plane brought in the Tampa Bay Rays Baseball team. The plane then had a maintenance issue and ferried to Denver Intl (KDEN) as COA1931 at 9:43pm.

Thursday 8-6-09

The first Boeing C-17 (F-208) destined for the Qatar Emiri Air Force was towed from the C-17 yard to the north blast walls. The plane currently carries the registration of N9500H.

Southwest Sportsjet LLC 757-236 N757SS arrived from Metropolitan Oakland Intl (KOAK) at 6:08pm and parked at Signature. The plane brought in the the Texas Rangers Baseball team.

Photos from last couple of weeks

The above photos were taken over the last couple of weeks. I have just not had time to transfer them from my phone.

LGB Special Event: Plane Pull

The 2009 Plane Pull is right around the corner!

On August 8, 2009, men and women will test their strength and endurance against machine, as teams of 25 play tug-of-war with a FedEx Airbus 310 aircraft.

There is still time left for teams and individuals to sign up and display their strength while attempting to muscle a plane 25 feet. Every participant receives a commemorative Plane Pull t-shirt. The winners will receive valuable prizes and a year's worth of official bragging rights!

You can register here: http://www.socalplanepull.com/

Date: August 8, 2009
Registration: 8:45 a.m.
Pull begins: 10 a.m.
Location: Long Beach Airport
2019 E Wardlow Rd. (across from Boeing) Long Beach, CA 90807

Fundraising Requirements:

Team: $1000
Individual: $50

Teams Participating in the 2009 Plane Pull:
- Tesoro
- Team Beaumont (Beaumont PD)
- Women with Pull
- Wescom WeCare Foundation
- Long Beach Airport
- FedEx LAX
- FedEx (Ontario)
- University of Redlands
- SOSC Long Beach Team 1
- SOSC Long Beach Team 2
- US Bank
- CHP
- UPS
- LAUSD
- TEAM SOSC
- Wild Hearts

Tuesday 8-4-09

Abraxis Bioscience Inc Gulfstream G550 N378L (c/n 5008) arrived at 2:15pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N673P

Long Beach Airport has nation's lowest fares

LONG BEACH - Flying doesn't get any cheaper than Long Beach Airport.

The city-owned airport offered the lowest fares of the top 100 airports in the nation, according to a federal transportation study that examined changes from the fourth quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2009.

Long Beach's average fare landed at $207 compared with $315 nationwide, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Data were calculated using both one-way and round-trip fares charged by airlines, as well as fees and taxes charged by airports. Frequent flier and other promotions were not included.

Long Beach Airport Director Mario Rodriguez said Long Beach's fares are lower in part because the cost of doing business here for airlines is the second lowest in the state.

Rodriguez said it runs airlines about $5.30 cents a passenger to fly out of Long Beach - about half of the cost at Los Angeles International Airport.

Competition from LAX, John Wayne, Burbank and other airports helps bring down prices.

"We are in an incredibly competitive market," Rodriguez said. "It's a very strong aviation market. It has wonderful demand. Long beach offers a very competitive product with JetBlue, Alaska, Delta and US Air."

The recession has had an impact. Ticket prices dropped 9.1 percent nationwide from the fourth quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2009.

California's suburban airports offered some of the lowest prices in the country. Oakland ($227) and Burbank ($231) ranked right behind LGB. Rounding out the top 5 were Dallas Love ($231) and Las Vegas ($235).

The most expensive airports were in smaller markets: Huntsville, Ala. ($505), Cincinnati ($446), Grand Rapids, Mich. ($418), Savannah, Ga. ($405), and Des Moines, Iowa ($403).

Higher prices are generally based on a lack of competition in smaller markets, Rodriguez said.

Long Beach fares experienced a 16 percent drop - from $247 to $207 - the first quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2009. Prices at LGB were also among the slowest to increase since the mid-1990s.

"If we can provide higher quality service at a lower cost we've done our job," Rodriguez said.

(Press Telegram)

Thursday 7-30-09

Odin Aviation Inc Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N808T (c/n 1342) arrived at 6:30pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: VH-CCC

Tuesday 7-28-09

Alaska Airlines 737-890 N528AS arrived from Ketchikan Intl (PAKT) as 8:15pm as ASA7621 and parked at AirFlite. The plane brought back the Ford Motor Company exectutives that were up in Alaska on a fishing trip. The plane ferried to Seattle-Tacoma Intl (KSEA) as ASA9723 at 9:05pm.

Monday 7-27-09

Omni Air International DC-10-30 N810AX arrived as OAE640 at 6:10pm from Honolulu Intl (PHNL) and parked on Taxiway Alpha. The plane dropped off military troops. The plane ferried back to Honolulu Intl (PHNL) as OAE640 at 8:40pm.

Here is a link to a video a co-worker took on his iPhone of OAE640 departing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Acb7Hzuczs

Gulfstream G-V (c/n 532) N740SS arrived from Brown Field Muni (KSDM) at 9:25pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Sunday 7-26-09

Northwest Airlines Airbus A319-114 N354NB (c/n 1833) departed at 5:48pm with the Minnesota Twins baseball team headed for Minneapolis/St Paul Intl (KMSP) as NWA9987.

Continental Airlines 737-824 N73256 (c/n 30611/692) arrived from Boeing Field Intl (KBFI) at 8:15pm as COA1901 and parked at Signature. The plane brought in the Cleveland Indians baseball team. The plane ferried to Ontario Intl (KONT) as COA1931 at 9:21pm.

Saturday 7-25-09

Alaska Airlines ferried a 737-700 into LGB from Seattle-Tacoma Intl (KSEA) as ASA9720 at 7:20am. The plane picked up some Ford Motor Company exectutives for a fishing trip in Ketchikan, Alaska. The plane departed at 8:25am as ASA7621 to Ketchikan Intl (PAKT).

Two F/A-18D Hornets departed at 11:20am and the aircraft wore X/F tail codes.

NetJets Gulfstream G550 N502QS arrived from Los Angeles Intl (KLAX) at 12:10pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N420QS, 09-001(Turkish Air Force)

Wednesday 7-22-09

UPS brought in a 757-24APF N470UP (c/n 25486/778) as flight UPS9220 from Ontario Intl (KONT) at 6:15pm after performing a go around due to the departing Skywest CRJ-900.

Northwest Airlines Airbus A319-114 N354NB (c/n 1833) arrived as NWA9987 from Metropolitan Oakland Intl (KOAK) at 6:48pm and parked at Signature. The plane brought in the Minnesota Twins baseball team who are going to play the Anaheim Angels this weekend.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N124EP (c/n 440)

Tuesday 7-21-09

Gulfstream G-IV N511PA (c/n 1111) arrived at 3:19pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Gulfstream G-IV N56L (c/n 1213) arrived at 6:38pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N454QS, VP-CMR

The Cranky Flier talks about LGB’s 75,000 Pound Weight Limit

Posted: 21 Jul 2009 07:16 AM PDT

It’s been awhile since I last wrote about Long Beach, so I thought last week’s Airport Advisory Commission meeting would be a good opportunity for me to bring it up again. Now that the plans for the new terminal (scheduled to break ground next year) and parking garage (scheduled to break ground this year) seem to be underway, the commission turned its eye toward commuter slots.

For the rest of the story, you can read it on his site. Here is the link to the story:

http://crankyflier.com/2009/07/21/long-beachs-75000-pound-weight-limit/

US Airways to outsource ramp at LGB

Starting this coming October, US Airways will be outsourcing the ramp at LGB. The ramp employees will be recieving a packet on Tuesday July 21 explaning what will happen and what will be available for them. Currently US Airways has layed off employees at LAX and will be down sizing their SNA operation this coming fall. Looks right now like PHX will be the closest station that has ramp openings. More information to come.

Monday 7-13-09

Two ARMY Blackhawk helicopters arrived at 7:30pm and parked at Signature. They departed at 8pm.

JetBlue Airways A320 N768JB (c/n 3760) was spotted tonight wearing the name of "Blue Crew" on the nose.

Sunday 7-12-09

NetJets Gulfstream G450 N421QS (c/n 4114) arrived at 11:30am from Metropolitan Oakland Intl (KOAK) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Bank of Utah Gulfstream G-III N557JK (c/n 340) arrived at 3:48pm from Tulsa Intl (KTUL) and parked at Signature.

Allegiant Air MD-87 N945MA arrived as AAY5121 from Laughlin/Bullhead Intl (KIFP) at 4:40pm. The plane ferried to San Diego Intl (KSAN) as AAY5121 at 5:45pm.

Skywest Airlines 35th Anniversary CRJ-900 N821SK (c/n 15109) arrived as SKW4719 from Salt Lake City Intl (KSLC) at 9:15am.

Sunrider Corp MD-87 N168CF arrived at 9:35am from Salt Lake City Intl (KSLC) and parked at AirFlite.

Omni Air International DC-10-30 N603AX arrived as OAE460 at 2:00pm from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Intl (KATL) and parked on Taxiway Alpha. The plane is picking up military troops. It departed at 5:30pm to Honolulu Int'l (PHIK) as OAE460 before continueing on to Australia.

Continental Airlines 737-800 ferried in at 3:30pm from Los Angeles Intl (KLAX) as COA1935 and parked at Signature. The plane picked up the Baltimore Orioles baseball team. The plane departed to Boeing Field Intl (KBFI) at 5:50pm as COA1907.

Gulfstream G-III N15HE (c/n 369) arrived from San Diego Intl (KSAN) at 4:03pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Saturday 7-4-09

Miami Air 737-81Q N732MA (30618/830) ferried in at 8:08am as flight BSK501 from Norfolk Navel Air Station, Chambers Field (KNGU) and parked at AirFlite. This aircraft joined 737-8Q8 N734MA (30039/701) which arrived yesterday from Halsey Field (KNZY) (North Island). N734MA departed LGB at 10:15am as BSK636 to Rickenbacker Intl (KLCK). N734MA departed at 11:48am as BSK618 to Rickenbacker Intl (KLCK). Both planes are carrying out soccer teams who played games at The Home Depot Center yesterday.

Thursday 7-2-09

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N699HH, N430QS, N183CW

JetBlue Wins 5th Straight J.D. Power Award

NEW YORK, June 30, 2009 -- New York's hometown airline JetBlue Airways today was awarded highest honors in airline customer satisfaction among low-cost carriers for the fourth year in a row by J.D. Power and Associates 2009 North America Airline Satisfaction Study(SM). This is the fifth consecutive customer satisfaction award JetBlue has received from J.D. Power and Associates. The value airline ranked highest in satisfaction among low-cost airlines in 2008, 2007 and 2006, and among all U.S. major airlines in 2005, when low-cost and traditional network carriers were combined in a single category.

"From our home in New York to every city we serve across the United States, the Caribbean and Latin America, the JetBlue spirit of customer service is strong," said Dave Barger, president and CEO of JetBlue Airways. "Customers recognize that a leading formula is more than great fares, more than advanced technology on comfortable airplanes and more than celebrated destinations -- it's also about people dedicated to providing exceptional service to one customer at a time. The 12,000 crewmembers here at JetBlue work hard every day to carry out this mission."

The J.D. Power and Associates 2009 North America Airline Satisfaction Study(SM) is based on responses from 12,952 business and leisure passengers who flew on a North American airline between April 2008 and May 2009. Overall customer satisfaction is measured based on performance in seven factors (in order of importance): cost and fees; flight crew; in-flight services; aircraft; boarding/deplaning/baggage; check-in; and reservation.

(Market Watch)

Tuesday 6-30-09

Gulfstream G550 N841GA (c/n 5241) was towed from the Gulfstream ramp to the Gulfstream paint hangar at 8:20pm.

Saturday 6-27-09

Allegiant Air MD-87 N952MA arrived as AAY6271 at 1:13pm from Reno/Tahoe Intl (KRNO). The plane ferried to San Diego Intl (KSAN) as AAY6272 at 2:02pm.

Tuesday 6-23-09

Allegiant Air MD-83 N879GA arrived from Reno/Tahoe Intl (KRNO) as AAY6231 at 7:15pm. The plane departed back to Reno/Tahoe Intl (KRNO) as AAY6232 at 8:25pm.

The control tower lost all power and radar from a short period at 7:30pm but everything was back online just prior to 8pm. No flights or aircraft movments were affected.

Monday 6-22-09

A RAF C-17 arrived in the afternoon and is parked at Signature.

The second newest E-190 in the JetBlue fleet arrived tonight from Austin. N307JB (c/n 19000286) wears the "Dots" tail scheme and carries the name of "Mi Corazon Azul" which was worn by A320 N528JB (c/n 1591).

New JetBlue Theme Plane

A20-232 N779JB (c/n 3811) has had Real Salt Lake soccer team decals added to the aircraft to promote the soccer team and the sponsorship of JetBlue. The plane will have the decals for atleast one year.

VACATION

I am currently on vacation and will return the week of June 14th.

Monday 6-1-09

The morning fleet launch flight for Alaska Airlines was operated by 737-490 N705AS (c/n 29318/3042) which is now wearing a special "Spirit of Alaska" paint scheme.

NetJets Gulfstream G-V N509QS (c/n 637) arrived from Van Nuys (KVNY) at 8:30pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N828GA, N810TM, N884WT

Sunday 5-31-09

Sunrider Corp MD-87 N168CF (49670/1453) arrived at 10:33am from Salt Lake City Intl (KSLC) and parked at AirFlite.

Orange County/Sunbird Aviation LLC Gulfstream G450 N237GA (c/n 4055) arrived at 12:17pm from Schulz-Sonoma Co Airport (KSTS) and parked at Long Beach Air Center.

Four Boeing F/A-18D Hornets were parked at Signature. There was one CAG bird, one aggressor and two normal grey colored models. The planes were from the VMFA-101 Sharp Shooters based at Miramar, CA. The aggressor and one grey F/A-18D departed at 12:29pm, returning sometime between 1:10pm and 1:40pm. The aggressor departed again at 2:40pm and did not return. One grey Hornet departed at 4:29pm and did not return. The CAG bird and other grey Hornet departed at 8:30pm and did not return.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N808T, N94FT

Court rules Long Beach Airport EIR is valid, clearing way for terminal expansion

LONG BEACH - An Orange County appeals court has ruled that an environmental impact study of planned improvements at Long Beach Airport was adequate, clearing the way for long-awaited terminal improvements to begin.

The 4th District California Court of Appeals issued its opinion late Thursday, one month after hearing oral arguments in the case, ruling in favor of the city of Long Beach and against the Long Beach Parent-Teacher Association.

The PTA alleged in its lawsuit that an environmental impact report that had examined the effects of expanding the airport terminal and building a parking garage there didn't take into account the potential noise impact of additional flights on area schools that might result from the expansion.

Writing for the three-justice appeals court, Justice William Rylaarsdam says in the ruling that it isn't the airport's size that restricts the number of flights at the airport, but Long Beach's strict noise ordinance.

Under a 1995 federal court settlement, the airport is limited to 41 commercial flights and 25 commuter flights daily.

"What plaintiff's (PTA's) argument misses is that the increase in the airport terminal's size, including the added gates and aircraft parking spaces, is intended to alleviate the currently overcrowded conditions resulting from the increased flight activity permitted under the city's existing noise ordinance," Rylaarsdam says.

Initially, the PTA had joined LongBeach Unified School District in the lawsuit in 2006, but after an Orange County judge ruled in the city's favor in early 2008, only the PTA appealed the ruling.

The lawsuit has been one of the main obstacles to the airport project, in turn creating tension between city officials and JetBlue Airways, the airport's largest airline.

In April, JetBlue CEO Dave Barger publicly said that the airline might consider leaving Long Beach because of the lack of progress on terminal improvements.

Since then, JetBlue has backed off of this stance and reaffirmed its commitment to Long Beach.

Airport officials also recently unveiled a phased plan to begin terminal improvements and construction of part of the parking garage.

While the plan is less ambitious than initially proposed, officials say it will be affordable and can be done mostly with existing revenues.

Legal `battle is over'

While the PTA could ask the California Supreme Court to review the case, City Attorney Bob Shannon said he thinks that is unlikely.

"I don't see any substantial likelihood that the Supreme Court would review this case," Shannon said today.

"For the legal aspects of it, practically speaking, the battle is over."

Attorney John Eastman, who represents the PTA, said Friday that he was "disappointed but not surprised" by the ruling.

Eastman said he hadn't talked with the PTA about the court's decision yet and couldn't comment on whether any further legal steps would be taken.

Eastman noted that the city has contended any change to the noise ordinance would require a new environmental study and said "we will hold them to that."

However, Eastman said the potential noise impact should be examined before the city spends millions of dollars on a project that he maintains could eventually lead to more flights.

New parking in phases

Under the airport plan, a new parking garage will be built in two phases, initially creating 1,900 parking spaces and then adding 3,200 more after 2016, if needed.

Airport officials expect to break ground on the garage by the end of the year.

The parking project will be funded through 30-year bonds that will have an annual debt service of $4.2 million, while the garage's Phase One is expected to bring in $4.9 million in additional revenue.

At the same time, the airport will close its off-site Parking Lot D, which it currently rents.

The first phase of the terminal improvements should begin by the end of 2010 and will focus on improving common areas such as restrooms, concession areas, passenger holding rooms and security checkpoints, airport officials say.

That work will cost $35 million and will be funded mostly through passenger facility charges paid by the airlines, officials say.

(Press Telegram)

Wednesday 5-27-09

The second Boeing F/A-18 Hornet that arrived on Sunday (5/24/09) finally departed today at 2:35pm after being stuck at Signature on a mechanical.

Gulfstream G-V VP-CES (c/n 669) departed for Le Bourget (LFPB) at 9:14pm.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N940CC, N508QS

Tuesday 5-26-09

Gulfstream G-V VP-CES (c/n 669) arrived at 7:17pm from Los Angeles Intl (KLAX) and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Ameristar Jet Charter Boeing 737-200 N733TW (c/n 22732/877) arrived as AJI9340 from Will Rogers World (KOKC) at 9:23pm and parked at Signature for fuel. The plane departed at 10:00pm as AJI9341 headed for Pullman/Moscow Rgnl (KPUW).

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N490QS

Monday 5-25-09

Gulfstream G350 N723MM (c/n 4077) arrived at 9:55pm and parked on the Gulfstream ramp.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: VP-BIP, N97FT

Sunday 5-24-09

Blue Airways newest E-190 N306JB (c/n 19000272) arrived from Austin-Bergstrom Intl (KAUS) at 7:26pm and is remaining overnight. The tail design is "Harlequin" and the name on the plane is "Blue Orleans".

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N506QS, N851CB

Thursday 5-21-09

Allegiant Air MD-83 N871GA arrived as AAY5214 from San Diego Intl (KSAN) at 9:10pm. The plane ferried to Sacramento Intl (KSMF) as AAY5215 at 9:50pm.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: PR-WRO

Tuesday 5-19-09

Katlitta Charters 727-2B6(F) N720CK (c/n 21298/1246) arrived as KFS720 at 2:50pm from Nashville Intl (KBNA) and parked at Long Beach Air Center. This was a government charter.

Horizon Airlines CRJ700 N609QX which carries the Oregon State Beavers College colors was the aircraft used on the second PDX flight of the day.

Monday 3-18-09

The Rockwell B-1B Bomber 86-0125 (c/n 85) was towed out onto rwy 25L at 3pm. The plane started to taxi at 3:45pm and took off on rwy 30 at 3:54pm as "Thunder 26".

Gulfstreams noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N902L

Sunday 5-17-09

Horizon Airlines started serving LGB today again flying two daily flights Portland, OR. Their first flight arrived from Portland Intl (KPDX) as QXE551 at 9:47am. The plane departed back to Portland Intl (KPDX) at 10:47am as QXE552. The plane used was N606QX.

Allegiant Air MD-87 N945MA ferried from San Diego Intl (KSAN) as AAY5175 and arrived at 7:50pm. The plane departed to Laughlin/Bullhead Intl (KIFP) as AAY5175 at 9:10pm.

At 8:40pm there was a 4.7 earthquake based near Inglewood. The airport was closed for a few minutes while the runways were checked for any damage.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N17ND

Pilot Lands Safely At LGB With Gear Up

A 1962 Beechcraft P35 Bonanza N9657Y (c/n D-7072) made a gear up landing at LGB Thursday morning. The pilot reported landing gear trouble at 8:30am and made the gear up landing on runway 25R. The pilot, who was the only passenger, was not injured.

Support for Boeing C-17 growing in Senate, lawmakers say

U.S. Sens. Barbara Boxer and Kit Bond have announced growing bipartisan support to save the Long Beach-built Boeing C-17.

Boxer, D-Calif., and Bond, R-Mo., issued a statement saying 17 of their Senate colleagues signed a letter asking the Senate Appropriations Committee to find funding for the airlifter.

Those who signed include some of the most influential senators, including Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif.; Orrin Hatch, R-Utah; and Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn.

A similar letter-writing effort led by local Reps. Laura Richardson, D-Long Beach, and Dana Rohrabacher, R-Huntington Beach, is under way in the House of Representatives.

The issue pits members of Congress against President Barack Obama, whose administration last week released a budget recommending that the production line be shuttered. Defense Secretary Robert Gates has said the military has enough C-17s to meet its needs.

A Boxer spokeswoman in Washington, D.C., referred a press call to a statement issued by the senator.

"Congressional support for the C-17 program remains high because the aircraft has an impressive record of providing airlift support to our troops in combat zones and those working on humanitarian missions around the world,"` Boxer said, according to the statement.

At stake are more than 5,000 jobs in Long Beach, where officials said they remain optimistic that members of Congress from both parties will work to fund future orders.

"We continue monitoring the situation," said C-17 project spokesman Jerry Drelling. "We are very appreciative of the support we've received in the Senate."

Also on Tuesday, Boeing delivered its 187th C-17 to Charleston Air Force Base in South Carolina. Boeing is filling 205 USAF orders.

The Chicago-based aerospace giant recently received a U.S. Air Force contract valued at up to $400 million for two of the aircraft intended for use by NATO allies and Sweden and Finland. Before that, a House panel proposed adding $2.2 billion for eight C-17s to Obama's pending war request.

Boeing, which has five international orders in production, is aggressively seeking more from outside the United States.

However, Drelling said international orders alone cannot sustain the C-17 program because U.S. production keeps prices affordable.

"We need a healthy U.S. production line," Drelling said.

Existing orders should keep the cargo-plane line going through 2011.

(Press Telegram)

Sunday 5-10-09

Continental Airlines 737-800 N13248 ferried from Los Angeles Intl (KLAX) as COA1930 at 1:49pm and parked at Signature. The plane picked up the Kansas City Royals baseball team and departed to San Francisco Intl (KSFO) as COA1905 at 5:28pm.

One F/A-18 Hornet departed from Signature at 2:33pm.

Olympia Aviation McDonnell Douglas DC-9-51 N682RW arrived at 11:56pm from Salina Muni (KSLN) which is where they made a fuel stop after starting the trip from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (KDTW). The plane brought in the Detroit Red Wings hockey team who are playing the Anahiem Ducks in the playoffs.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N156WC, N841GA (green)

Saturday 5-9-09

Two F/A-18 Hornets departed from Signature at 3:33pm.

Sunday 5-3-09

Two F/A-18 Hornets departed at 2:23pm after being parked at Signature.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N545CC

Saturday At The Airport

I took the photos above during the late afternoon. Saturdays have been good lately for some pictures on the ramp and hopefully will continue to be good since summer is coming!

Saturday 5-2-09

The Rockwell B-1B Bomber 86-0125 (c/n 85) that has been parked under the tower was towed to the Boeing blast wall inside the Boeing property around 12pm today. The plane was moved from the Boeing property back to the area beneath the tower at 4:30pm after undergoing engine runups today.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: VP-BMV

Friday 5-1-09

Collings Foundation B-24J Liberator NX224X, B-17G NL93012 and TP-51C NL251MX arrived between 2:30pm and 2:35pm and all the aircraft parked at Signature. They will be here on display until May 5th before leaving for Camarillo. Rides are also available. For more information, check out http://www.collingsfoundation.org

NetJets Gulfstream G-IV(SP) N487QS (c/n 1287) arrived from Palm Springs Intl (KPSP) at 2:52pm and parked at Gulfstream.

Volga-Dnepr Airlines AN-124 RA-82044 arrived at 4:18pm from Biggs Aaf (Fort Bliss) (KBIF) and is parked on taxiway Alpha. The plane will be here through the weekend with a tentative scheduled departure time of 9:00am Monday May 4.

Tail numbers noted on the Gulfstream ramp: N624GJ, OE-IVV, G550 c/n 5224 with "The Chatwal" titles on tail.

LGB Has Full-Scale Triennial Exercise

Last night (Friday 4-24), LGB had it's full scale triennial excercise or in basic terms, full scale airport emergency drill. It involved an A320 that had just been boarded with passengers when there was a fuel leak while the fueler finished up which turned into an explosion of the right wing. Captain Stephen Toernblom (your author) was assisted by First Officer Cabel Parker (photo above) in helping the in flight crew get as many passengers off the aircraft. Both pilots were uninjured. There were a lot of emergency vehicles from difference cities. Overall the excercise went well and even the famous Chuck Norris made an appearence to watch the whole thing.