John Wayne Airport (JWA), officially recognized as John Wayne Airport, Orange County Airport, plays a pivotal role in Southern California’s air transportation network. Owned and operated by the County of Orange, this bustling airport serves as the sole commercial-service airport within the county. It’s a dynamic hub where general aviation, commercial airlines, and private jets converge, sharing runways, terminal facilities, and storage spaces.
Currently, John Wayne Airport manages a substantial volume of air traffic, accommodating approximately 11.3 million passengers each year. Daily operations include around 130 commercial flights, making it a significant contributor to the region’s connectivity. Situated along the northern edge of Newport Beach, the airport’s location places it in close proximity to both residential and commercial areas, which lie directly beneath the primary departure routes for both commercial and general aviation aircraft.
The proximity of John Wayne Airport to residential areas means that communities face considerable challenges, notably concerning noise pollution, increased traffic, and aircraft emissions. These factors can significantly impact the quality of life for Newport Beach residents. Therefore, monitoring and mitigating the operational impacts of the airport, alongside efforts to prevent its expansion, remain critical priorities for the City of Newport Beach and its community.
The John Wayne Airport Settlement Agreement: A Cornerstone of Community Protection
A landmark agreement, the Settlement Agreement of 1985, was established to address and resolve litigation concerning John Wayne Airport (JWA). This unique agreement, involving the City of Newport Beach, the County of Orange, the Airport Working Group (AWG), and Stop Polluting Our Newport (SPON), is instrumental in safeguarding the quality of life in Newport Beach. This agreement outlines key operational parameters and environmental safeguards for John Wayne Airport. More detailed information about this crucial agreement and its extensions can be found on the Settlement Agreement and Extensions page.
Managing Aircraft Noise at John Wayne Airport
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) holds the responsibility for managing all air traffic and defining flight patterns across the United States. Recently, the FAA implemented new departure patterns, known as “NextGen,” for flights departing from John Wayne Airport. These changes are part of a broader effort to modernize the national airspace system. More information on these adjustments can be reviewed on the “NextGen” page.
John Wayne Airport actively monitors, investigates, and responds to all noise complaints from the community. Residents with concerns about aircraft noise are encouraged to contact the John Wayne Airport Access and Noise Office directly at 949-252-5185. This office serves as a direct point of contact for addressing noise-related issues and concerns stemming from airport operations.
Community and Corridor Cities Unite to Address Airport Impacts
The Newport Beach City Council, along with several other Orange County cities located along the John Wayne Airport arrival and departure corridors—collectively known as the “Corridor Cities”—have formed a united front. This coalition publicly opposes any measures that could intensify the airport’s impact on surrounding communities. Specifically, they are against:
- Expansion of John Wayne Airport beyond its current boundaries.
- Construction of a second commercial runway or extension of the existing runway at John Wayne Airport.
- Any significant reduction in general aviation operations or facilities that might lead to an increase in commercial aircraft traffic at John Wayne Airport.
- Any modifications to air carrier or general aviation noise ordinances that could be detrimental to local residents.
Newport Beach recognizes the critical importance of coordinated efforts between local citizen groups, the Corridor Cities, and the County to effectively manage the adverse impacts of John Wayne Airport and preserve the quality of life for current and future generations. Numerous governmental committees and community groups regularly convene to discuss and tackle airport-related issues, including the City’s Aviation Committee. To discover more about community involvement, please visit the Get Involved page.
For further inquiries regarding the City’s ongoing efforts related to John Wayne Airport, please contact the City Manager’s Office at 949-644-3001.
