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Airport and Big Bear Air

This is a fantastic video developed for BigBearAir.com. If you’ve wondered what it was like to fly around Big Bear CA, sit back and press play!

Big Bear Airport L35

Big Bear Airport

Before heading to Big Bear by airplane, there are several unique issues to be aware of; density altitude in the summer, unique wind conditions and winter weather issues.

Density altitude is caused when warming heats air molecules, causing them to expand. This creates a “thin” air density. You are most likely to encounter this effect during the summer months of June, July and August. The best way to avoid density altitude is to do a morning “cold air” take-off. Warning signs are posted at both ends of the runway: Lean Engine for Best Performance.

Big Bear can experience strong wind conditions. Wind shear can easily develop at the end of runway 26. If you see lens-shaped clouds, be prepared for cross-winds. One pilot suggested, “Stay high and land long.” Time to tighten your seatbelts!

Most of the winter issues in Big Bear are common to all airports. If temperatures are starting to get cold, use cold weather start procedures. Check for frost on the wings, ice on the runway and moisture condensation in the fuel. A multi-grade oil is recommended.

AWOS reports can be heard at 135.925. The automatic weather observation phone number is (909)585-4033. Below is a list of frequencies.

Freq

Service

135.925

AWOS

122.725

Unicom

122.2

Riverside Radio

122.0

Flight Watch

127.25

SoCal Approach – WSW Bound

119.65

SoCal Approach – S Bound

124.55

Joshua Approach – N Bound

126.35

LA Center – E Bound

1932 Big Bear City Landing Field

Airport History

Access by Air -1959

Big Bear City airport, owned by Ted M. Page of Monrovia, is situated at the east end of Big Bear Lake and is rapidly becoming popular among the private plane enthusiasts.

The field elevation is 6,850 ft. The 3,700 ft. paved runway is clearly visible from the air.  Traffic pattern is to the south.  The airport is not located on current aeronautical charts.  West winds prevail, but pilots may check the “Tetrahedron” on the south side of runway.

Important tips on mountain flying…..LANDING: Keep up your airspeed on your approach at high altitudes.  You will settle in faster than at sea level.  If you go around, do not pull up sharply.  TAKE-OFF: Do not try to get into the air prematurely.  Let your tail come up and pick up flying speed before lifting off.

A group of private plane owners formed the Airport Assn. For the purpose of developing and preserving the existing facilities.

More than 200 private planes registered at the annual fly-in held in mid-Sept. with many prizes and activities planned.  Proceeds are used for improvement of facilities.