- USD 11.99
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- Added: August 29, 2024
- Updated: November 21, 2024
Requires 'UK2000 Scenery Common Library' Available from Marketplace (FREE)
Big Bear Airport (officially known as Big Bear City Airport, IATA code: L35) is a public airport located in Big Bear City, California, in the San Bernardino Mountains. It primarily serves the local community and visitors to the Big Bear Lake region, a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Situated at an elevation of 6,752 feet (2,058 meters), making it one of the highest-altitude airports in Southern California. The airport is about 3 miles east of Big Bear Lake, providing convenient access to nearby recreational areas. It has a single asphalt runway, 08/26, which is 5,850 feet long (1,783 meters) and 75 feet wide (23 meters). The length and altitude require careful attention from pilots due to the thinner air and resulting impact on aircraft performance.
The idea of an airport in the Big Bear Valley first emerged in the 1940s, when World War II had prompted greater interest in aviation infrastructure across the United States. At the time, the Big Bear area was primarily accessible by car via winding mountain roads, making air travel an appealing alternative for those seeking faster access to the remote area. In the 1950s, local aviation enthusiasts, including a group of pilots and business owners, began pushing for the development of an airstrip. This resulted in the construction of the airport, originally a basic dirt strip, in Big Bear City. It catered primarily to small private aircraft. The 1990s saw continued modernization efforts, including upgrades to the runway, taxiways, and safety systems. The airport added more services such as fuel stations, maintenance facilities, and hangars to accommodate the growing number of aircraft. Today, Big Bear Airport serves as a regional hub for general aviation, welcoming a variety of aircraft from small private planes to larger corporate jets.
Please note you must install the 'UK2000 Scenery Common Library' (Free from Marketplace or our website)