Topline:
The annual airshow in Huntington Beach passed a pivotal test today when the California Coastal Commission unanimously voted to grant a five-year permit to operate. The approval means the airshow will take place as planned Oct. 3-5.
The backstory: The operator, Pacific Airshow LLC, had failed to apply for a Coastal Commission permit in prior years. Some critics had concerns that the show violated rules protecting coastal resources and public access to the beach, which the commission oversees.
Past controversy: The airshow has generated controversy among Huntington Beach residents after the city agreed to pay the operator up to $7 million plus additional perks in order to settle a lawsuit over the show’s cancellation in 2021 after a major oil spill off the coast.
Airshow support: Numerous public officials and others spoke at the Coastal Commission meeting in support of the airshow and its operator, Kevin Elliott. They said the event brings in major tourism dollars and teaches and inspires young would-be pilots.
Permit conditions: The air show operator agreed to a long list of conditions for the permit, including hiring a biologist to study the effects of noisy planes on birds at Bolsa Chica. If there is a significant impact on wildlife, the Coastal Commission could modify the permit for future years or even require a new one.
