Posted on June 25th, 2025
Santa Monica Airport (SMO), also known as Santa Monica Municipal Airport, is a historic general aviation airport located in Santa Monica and the Mar Vista neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Positioned just two miles from the Pacific Ocean and six miles north of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), SMO was once a premier hub for private jet travelers flying to Beverly Hills, Malibu, Brentwood, and the greater Los Angeles area.
However, due to significant operational restrictions, including a permanently shortened 3,500-foot runway, strict curfews, and aggressive noise enforcement, Santa Monica Airport is no longer a viable option for most private jet charters. Larger private jets, midsize aircraft, and long-range jets are not permitted to operate at SMO, and jet activity is extremely limited.
JetOptions Private Jets is your expert partner in navigating Los Angeles’ private jet landscape. With decades of experience, we guide our clients to the most efficient, convenient, and regulation-compliant airports in the region.
Santa Monica Airport currently does not support most on-demand private jet charters. For charter services to and from Los Angeles, JetOptions recommends Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Van Nuys Airport (VNY), and Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) as your preferred alternatives for private aviation.
Located approximately 6 miles from Santa Monica, LAX offers 24/7 FBO services, U.S. Customs, and full private jet accommodations for domestic and international flights with multiple luxury terminals.
Approximately 15 miles from Santa Monica, Van Nuys is one of the busiest private jet airports in the world. VNY offers luxury FBO services, planeside boarding, minimal taxi times, and 24/7 jet accessibility.
About 20 miles from Santa Monica, BUR offers highly efficient FBO services for private jets, convenient access to Hollywood, and a fast, low-congestion experience for charter travelers.
Whether you’re flying to LAX, Van Nuys, or Burbank, JetOptions provides luxury service and custom flight planning for your next Los Angeles trip. Request your quote online or call 214‑254‑4997 to plan your custom private jet charter today.
Is Santa Monica Airport available for private jet charters? Generally, no. SMO has phased out most jet operations and is not a recommended airport for private jet charters. JetOptions recommends LAX, VNY, or Burbank instead.
What are the current restrictions at Santa Monica Airport?SMO has a shortened 3,500-foot runway, strict curfews, and some of the most aggressive noise enforcement regulations in the nation. These restrictions have significantly limited jet activity.
Can I still charter a turboprop to Santa Monica Airport? In some cases, light turboprops and piston aircraft may be permitted for limited operations. JetOptions can advise if your specific request is eligible.
When will Santa Monica Airport close? Santa Monica Airport is scheduled to permanently close all aviation operations on December 31, 2028, as per the 2017 FAA agreement with the City of Santa Monica.
What are the best private jet airports near Santa Monica? JetOptions recommends Los Angeles International (LAX), Van Nuys (VNY), and Hollywood Burbank (BUR) for most private jet travelers flying to and from the Los Angeles area.
Explore more Los Angeles private jet destinations or browse our private jet fleet to find the best aircraft for your next charter flight.
