Van Nuys Airport: Private Jet Charter Hub of Los Angeles
Van Nuys Airport (VNY, KVNY) is the premier gateway for private aviation in Los Angeles. Located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, just 20 miles from Downtown LA and minutes from Beverly Hills, Van Nuys is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the world, exclusively serving private and corporate aircraft.
Unlike commercial hubs such as LAX, VNY operates without scheduled airline service, allowing for streamlined departures, minimal ground delays, and unmatched discretion. As a dedicated general aviation facility, it relieves traffic pressure on nearby commercial airports while delivering a more controlled, relaxed, and efficient environment for business jet travelers.
With its strategic location, 24/7 availability, and elite fixed-base operators, Van Nuys has become the preferred choice for celebrities, executives, and VIPs flying to and from Southern California. From quick regional hops to nonstop international connections, JetOptions provides charter solutions tailored to your schedule and aircraft preferences at VNY.
Business & General Aviation at VNY
Van Nuys Airport is purpose-built for general aviation. It supports private jet charters, corporate aircraft operations, flight training schools, and critical mission services, including air ambulance, search and rescue, law enforcement, and broadcast news helicopters. Although it has no commercial airline traffic, it serves as an essential infrastructure hub for both public and private aviation throughout the Greater Los Angeles area.
✈️ JetOptions Tip: Van Nuys Airport is just minutes from Los Angeles’ most exclusive neighborhoods—Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood, Malibu, Hollywood, and Century City—a top choice for VIP arrivals and departures.
JetOptions at Van Nuys: Quick Facts & Client Insights
Most flights can be wheels-up in 2–4 hours with JetOptions.
Yes—KVNY offers U.S. Customs clearance for direct international departures and arrivals.
VNY provides faster departures, no airline traffic, and dedicated FBO luxury.
JetOptions charter at Van Nuys offers VIP treatment, private departures, and luxury FBO access.
Van Nuys Airport Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs)
Van Nuys Airport is home to six premier Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) that offer exceptional service and full-spectrum support for private and corporate aviation. Whether you’re refueling, chartering a flight, or upgrading your aircraft interior, these FBOs ensure VIP-level service and operational excellence.
- Aviation Fueling: Jet A, Avgas, and SAF fueling services are available for all aircraft types.
- Charter Handling & Concierge: Passenger lounges, crew amenities, customs coordination, and valet services.
- Maintenance & Repair: Certified technicians provide on-site inspections, avionics support, and mechanical services.
- Hangars & Ramp Parking: Short- and long-term aircraft storage in secure, climate-controlled facilities.
- Interior & Avionics Upgrades: Aircraft interior customization and cutting-edge avionics enhancements.
These world-class FBOs ensure that every arrival and departure at Van Nuys is handled with professionalism, discretion, and comfort—whether you’re stopping for fuel or preparing for a long-range charter mission.
Van Nuys FBO Directory:
- Castle & Cooke Aviation
- Clay Lacy Aviation
- Jet Aviation
- Signature Flight Support (East & West)
- The Park VNY (exclusive propeller-only terminal)
JetOptions Insight: At Van Nuys, every FBO delivers a refined experience—seamless, secure, and fully tailored to the needs of private jet travelers. Whether you’re arriving for a high-profile meeting or departing for a coastal escape, Van Nuys ensures world-class service at every step. Here are some essential airport details for your next JetOptions private jet charter:
Van Nuys Airport: Essential Information
- Airport Codes: IATA – VNY | ICAO – KVNY | FAA LID – VNY
- Location Coordinates: 34°12′36″N, 118°29′24″W
- Operational Hours: 24/7 | Control Tower: 06:00–22:45 daily
- Runways:
- Runway 16R/34L: 8,001 feet (primary jet runway)
- Runway 16L/34R: 4,013 feet (training and light aircraft)
- Airport Address: 16461 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91406
- Phone: (818) 442-6500
Customs & Border Protection at VNY
Van Nuys Airport offers on-site U.S. Customs & Border Protection services at the Signature West FBO, allowing international private flights to clear customs without detouring to commercial airports. This provides JetOptions clients with a seamless and confidential arrival experience.
Customs Office Hours
- Mon, Thu & Sun: 08:00–22:00
- Tue & Wed: 14:00–22:00
- Fri & Sat: 08:00–16:00
To clear customs outside these hours, advance arrangements are required. Each international arrival typically takes about one hour from touchdown to clearance.
Van Nuys Airport Runways & Departure Procedures
Van Nuys Airport (VNY) features two parallel runways designed to accommodate a wide range of private and general aviation aircraft:
- Runway 16R/34L: 8,001 feet long – primary runway equipped with a full Instrument Landing System (ILS)
- Runway 16L/34R: 4,013 feet long – secondary runway primarily used for training and light aircraft
These runways support VNY’s reputation as one of the busiest general aviation airports in the world, with robust infrastructure for private jet departures and arrivals.
Jet Departure Protocols at Van Nuys: What Clients Should Know
Van Nuys Airport operates under FAA-established procedures that help ensure safe, efficient, and community-conscious departures for private jet travelers. Here’s what that means for your flight:
- Preferred Runway Use: Most jet departures utilize Runway 16R, the airport’s main runway, which offers the longest available distance for a smooth and optimal takeoff.
- Noise-Aware Climb-Out Paths:
- Departures from Runways 16R/16L climb straight over the Sepulveda Flood Basin before turning.
- Departures from 34R/34L climb to 1,800 feet before making any directional changes.
- Efficient Operations: Van Nuys prohibits repetitive jet training and pattern flights, reducing congestion and prioritizing your travel experience.
- Tower Hours: Air traffic control operates from 6:00 AM to 10:45 PM daily, ensuring a managed and safe flow of flights throughout the day.
About Van Nuys Airport (VNY)
Van Nuys Airport (VNY), formerly known as Metropolitan Airport, has a storied legacy dating back to 1928, shortly after the opening of LAX. Initially, a proving ground for daring aviators, VNY quickly became a hub for early aviation milestones.
- In 1929, pilot Herbert Fahy set a solo endurance record, remaining airborne for 37 hours.
- Later that same year, pioneering aviators Elinor Smith and Bobbi Trout shattered records with a 42-hour endurance flight.
Though the founding corporation dissolved during the Great Depression, Hollywood studios—already using the airport for film production—helped preserve its operations. This support marked the beginning of Van Nuys Airport’s enduring relationship with Los Angeles’s economy and culture.
Today, VNY is managed by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and continues to play a vital role in the region. It houses emergency response services, including:
- LA Fire Department Air Operations
- Los Angeles Police Department aviation division
- LADWP helicopter maintenance and repair
- Private Medical Transport Flights
VNY ranks among the busiest general aviation airports in the world, with over 300,000 annual takeoffs and landings. A recent study estimated its economic impact at $2 billion, supporting more than 10,000 local jobs.
JetOptions Insight: Van Nuys isn’t just a private jet hub—it’s a living part of aviation history and a modern economic engine. Choose VNY for your next charter and fly with the legacy of aviation pioneers.
Famous Scenes & Filming at Van Nuys Airport
Van Nuys Airport is not only one of the busiest general aviation airports in the world—it’s also one of the most filmed. VNY has appeared in iconic productions such as Casablanca, Ocean’s Thirteen, and the first season of Entourage. The airport has also served as a backdrop in music videos for artists such as Britney Spears, Blink-182, and Metallica.
More recently, Van Nuys has featured in popular series and streaming productions that require private jets and executive aviation settings. TV shows like Glee, CSI, The Office, and Ballers have utilized VNY for location shoots, with newer productions continuing to capitalize on its cinematic appeal.
From classic Hollywood to today’s high-definition dramas, Van Nuys Airport remains a go-to filming location for aviation-themed scenes, luxury travel moments, and exclusive on-the-tarmac shots.
Van Nuys Airport Noise Abatement Programs
Van Nuys Airport follows both mandatory and voluntary noise reduction programs managed by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA). These include:
- Quieter Nights Program: Jet aircraft are encouraged to avoid operations between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM unless performing emergency, military, law enforcement, or medical missions.
- Partial Curfew Ordinance: Stage 2 aircraft are prohibited from departing between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Stage 3 aircraft may operate until 11:00 PM. Landings and helicopter operations are not restricted.
- Touch-and-Go Restrictions: Prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM to reduce noise in residential areas.
These efforts reflect the airport’s commitment to minimizing the impact of aviation activity on surrounding communities while supporting essential air services.
Sustainable Aviation at Van Nuys Airport
Van Nuys Airport is at the forefront of environmental responsibility in the private aviation industry. As part of its commitment to greener operations, VNY has achieved Level 2 Optimization under the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, administered by the Airports Council International. This distinction places VNY among a select group of airports actively reducing emissions through measurable and verified strategies, just one step below complete carbon neutrality.
VNY continues to prioritize eco-conscious aviation through infrastructure upgrades, alternative fuels, and energy management practices that reflect the future of sustainable flight. Key initiatives include:
- Solar Power: On-site solar energy installations help offset airport electricity needs, reducing dependence on grid-based fossil fuels.
- Sustainable Fuel: VNY offers Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), providing a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel.
- Electric Vehicles: Ground support equipment and service vehicles are being increasingly replaced with electric alternatives across airport facilities.
- Stormwater Management: Advanced systems capture and treat runoff, protecting local water quality and preserving nearby ecosystems.
- Energy Optimization: LAWA continuously monitors and manages energy usage, enhancing efficiency in lighting, HVAC systems, and other areas.
- LAWA Sustainability Reports: Annual updates provide transparency and track the airport’s ongoing progress toward long-term environmental goals.
JetOptions Insight: Flying private doesn’t mean flying irresponsibly. At Van Nuys Airport, sustainability is built into the design of the runway. Choose JetOptions for charter flights aligned with your values.
Nearby Airports to Van Nuys
While Van Nuys Airport is a premier destination for private aviation in Los Angeles, many other airports in the region also support general aviation and private jet traffic. Whether you’re looking for alternatives due to availability, proximity to your destination, or specific services, these nearby airports offer additional flexibility for your travel plans.
Van Nuys Airport is ideally located within reach of several key airports in Southern California. Whether you need a commercial backup, international customs, or another private terminal, these nearby airports offer versatile alternatives:
~26 miles from VNY
Major commercial and international hub
~63 miles from VNY
Key hub for cargo and inland access
Need flexibility in your L.A. travel plans?
JetOptions can arrange flights to or from Van Nuys and all nearby airports across Southern California, providing you with maximum access, privacy, and convenience.
Experience a JetOptions charter flight from Van Nuys. Where VIP treatment meets unmatched private aviation luxury
KVNY: Popular Private Jet Travel Routes
| Origin | Destination | Flight Time[Approx] | Private Jet Category | Passenger Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Van Nuys | New York | 5 hours | Super Midsize Jet | 8-9 |
| Van Nuys | Hawaii | 6 hours | Heavy Jet | 12-18 |
| Vancouver BC | Van Nuys | 2.5 hours | Light Jet | 4-7 |
| Denver | Van Nuys | 2 hours | Midsize Jet | 6-8 |
Explore our extensive selection of aircraft at JetOptions and find the perfect fit for your travel plans. Our clients fly in a range of jets tailored to their mission and comfort needs, including:
- Light Jets – ideal for short-haul flights and quick regional travel,
- Midsize Jets – a perfect blend of range and efficiency,
- Super-Midsize Jets – offering spacious cabins and transcontinental capabilities, and
- Heavy Jets – delivering ultimate luxury and long-range performance.
At JetOptions, our clients fly in a wide variety of aircraft, from quick regional hops to long-range transcontinental charters. Here are some of the most popular jets across each category:
- Light Jets:
- Midsize Jets:
- Super-Midsize Jets:
- Heavy Jets:
️ Things to Explore Near Van Nuys
Whether you’re staying local in the San Fernando Valley or venturing into the heart of Los Angeles, Van Nuys offers convenient access to a mix of cultural sites, outdoor activities, and iconic destinations:
Local Highlights in the San Fernando Valley:
- ️ Woodley Park – A lush escape in the Sepulveda Basin, ideal for a relaxing walk or outdoor picnic.
- Van Nuys Airport Public Observation Area – Watch private jets and historic aircraft from a scenic viewing point.
- The Japanese Garden – A hidden gem of tranquility with koi ponds, waterfalls, and Zen landscaping.
- ️ 1932 Valley Municipal Building (Van Nuys City Hall) – Admire classic Art Deco architecture at this local landmark.
- Sherman Oaks Castle Park – A fun family destination featuring mini golf, arcade games, and batting cages.
- Sepulveda Dam Bike Path – A scenic cycling route that follows the LA River through the Sepulveda Basin.
Nearby Iconic Spots in Greater Los Angeles:
- ️ The Burbank Aviation Museum – Explore Southern California’s aviation legacy, just minutes from Van Nuys.
- ️ Santa Monica State Beach – Soak in Pacific Coast views just a short drive from Van Nuys.
- ️ Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills – Indulge in luxury shopping and celebrity-spotting at one of the world’s most iconic retail destinations.
Why Choose JetOptions at Van Nuys Airport
JetOptions Private Jets delivers unmatched access, safety, and service from Van Nuys Airport—one of the world’s most prestigious private aviation hubs. As a BBB, ARGUS, and Wyvern registered company, we uphold the highest standards in aircraft safety, crew certification, and operational integrity.
Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, here’s why JetOptions is the trusted partner for your VNY charter:
- Rapid Availability: Book any aircraft at any time, often within 2–4 hours—perfect for urgent travel needs.
- Elite Safety: Every aircraft is ARGUS or Wyvern certified, maintained to FAA Part 135 standards, and insured from $50M to $250M.
- Concierge Service 24/7: Enjoy personalized travel support, including ground transportation, hotel bookings, medical escorts, and VIP security.
- Dedicated Advisors: Your personal Aviation Account Executive is available around the clock, securing the best market rates without compromising safety or comfort.
- Aircraft Excellence: We offer pristine cabin interiors and top-tier aircraft conditions for every flight.
- Exclusive One-Way Deals: Access premium one-way jet charters with locked-in rates on select routes.
- Complimentary Upgrades: Receive an aircraft class upgrade when available—just one more way we elevate your journey.
With its prime location, exceptional privacy, and world-class VIP services, Van Nuys Airport is the premier choice for elite private travel to Los Angeles. At JetOptions, we enhance that experience even further by offering red-carpet tarmac access, seamless luxury transfers, and confidential, on-demand scheduling. Choose JetOptions for your next Van Nuys jet charter and experience private aviation without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Van Nuys Airport
How far is Van Nuys Airport from LAX?
Van Nuys Airport is approximately 26 miles north of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). While LAX serves major commercial airlines, VNY offers a private, streamlined alternative for those flying by charter jet.
Does Van Nuys Airport have commercial airline service?
No. Van Nuys is exclusively a general aviation airport, reserved for private jets, business aircraft, charters, air ambulances, and government aviation. It does not support scheduled commercial airline flights.
How long is the runway at Van Nuys Airport?
Van Nuys Airport has two runways. The main runway (16R/34L) is 8,001 feet long and equipped with a full Instrument Landing System (ILS). The secondary runway (16L/34R) measures 4,011 feet and is used for light aircraft and training.
What are Van Nuys Airport’s operating hours?
Van Nuys Airport operates 24 hours a day for aircraft arrivals and departures. The FAA control tower is staffed daily from 6:00 AM to 10:45 PM local time. U.S. Customs is also available at Signature Flight Support (West), by appointment.
What are the Van Nuys Airport codes?
The official airport codes are: IATA: VNY, ICAO: KVNY, and FAA LID: VNY.
Client FAQs: Private Jet Travel at Van Nuys
✈️ Can I book a last-minute private jet at Van Nuys?
Yes. JetOptions can secure aircraft within 2–3 hours’ notice. With round-the-clock operations and elite service providers, VNY is a preferred airport for same-day and emergency departures.
️ What types of jets can operate at Van Nuys Airport?
Van Nuys accommodates all classes of private jets, from light jets like the Phenom 300 to ultra-long-range aircraft like the Gulfstream G700 and Global 7500.
Does Van Nuys have customs services for international arrivals?
Yes. U.S. Customs & Border Protection is available at Signature Flight Support West with advance coordination, making VNY ideal for international private jet flights.
How close is Van Nuys to Beverly Hills and Hollywood?
VNY is approximately 12 miles from Beverly Hills and 16 miles from Hollywood, offering unmatched access to Los Angeles’ premier destinations.
What are the airport’s hours of operation?
Van Nuys Airport is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The control tower operates from 6:00 AM to 10:45 PM local time.
Why choose Van Nuys for private flights?
With full-service FBOs, a private-only environment, and top-tier ground handling, Van Nuys delivers discretion, efficiency, and luxury unmatched by commercial airports.
JetOptions offers the ultimate experience in private jet charter travel at Van Nuys Airport. Choose luxury, flexibility, and discretion for your next private flight to or from Los Angeles.
