Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC): A Comprehensive Guide for Air Travelers and Aviation Buffs

Whenever one hears about air travel in Sacramento, one immediately thinks of Sacramento International Airport. But a few miles from there is an airport that has not lost its relevance in general aviation—it is called the Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC).

Just three miles from downtown, the airport has become a popular destination not only because of its rich history but also because of its usefulness to many today.

A Brief History of the Airport

Opened in 1930, the airport was originally developed on the site historically associated with Sutterville, an early settlement in Sacramento.

During World War II, the airport was handed over to the U.S. Army Air Corps, where it served as an important training facility for pilots. During this period, military personnel were trained using various types of aircraft, such as the Bell P-39 Airacobra, used primarily for pilot training and light military aircraft operations.

After the end of the war, the control of the airport reverted to civilian control and was named Sacramento Municipal Airport. During the 1950s, some improvements were made at the airport, which included the construction of a terminal building, the installation of lighting facilities, and hangar facilities.

A major change occurred in the 1960s when all airline traffic moved to Sacramento International Airport, and the airport was renamed Sacramento Executive Airport.

Airline Era & Transition

Before 1967, the airport serviced commercial flights provided by large carriers such as United Airlines and regional companies like Pacific Air Lines.

Flights included connections between Sacramento and important destinations like:

• San Francisco

• Los Angeles

• Reno

• Medford

• Lake Tahoe

Some examples of jets that serviced the airport included Boeing 727-100 and Boeing 720B.

But with the expansion needs and increased activity at the time, the airport transitioned its commercial services to the new Sacramento International Airport, becoming dedicated to private and corporate aviation only.

Notable Incidents

1972 Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Crash

The tragic event took place on September 24, 1972, when a Canadair Sabre jet crashed just after taking off from the airport because of a pilot’s error, crashing into an ice cream parlor nearby. It resulted in 22 deaths, mostly involving children, and introduced aviation safety standards.

Today, a memorial exists at the crash site in remembrance of the victims of this tragedy and the safety of aviation services.

1987 Aircraft Crash

Another accident happened in 1987, when a small aircraft crashed just after taking off amid windy conditions, which led to four deaths.

Facilities and Infrastructure at the Airport

Despite being relatively small, Sacramento Executive Airport is equipped with all the necessary facilities required for effective functioning.

Runways

• Runway 2/20: 5,503 ft x 150 ft (Main runway)

• Runway 12/30: Secondary runway fitted with lighting systems

• Lighting systems, including MALSR, REIL, and PAPI

(Note: Runway 16/34 is no longer in active use.)

Control Tower

The FAA contract control tower operates daily with limited hours (typically early morning to evening.

Aircraft Operations

An average of 370 aircraft operations daily is recorded by this airport, indicating its significance in the aviation industry.

Services/Businesses at the Airport

Another important factor that sets Sacramento Executive Airport apart is its vibrant aviation community. More than 20 businesses are working at this airport, including:

• Aircraft charter service

• Flight schools

• Maintenance and repair facility

• Supplies, examination center for pilots

• Car rental service

Pilot & Visitor Amenities

Sacramento Executive Airport provides a pleasant experience for pilots and visitors alike.

Key Features:

• Pilots' lounge

• Meeting rooms in SACjet and terminal buildings

• Free parking for short periods (maximum 3 days)

• 24-hour self-fueling service (Avgas & Jet A)

• Hangar rental services

• Tie-down parking

• Complete FBO and line services

• Access for disabled passengers

The airport has an in-house restaurant where visitors can dine while enjoying aircraft movement activities, which is quite unique.

Proximity

One of the key features of the Sacramento Executive Airport is its ideal location. With only a ten-minute drive from Sacramento's downtown area, it puts visitors close to many attractions, including:

• Old Sacramento

• California State Capitol

• Golden 1 Center

• Cal Expo

In addition, it provides easy access to shopping malls, golf courses, and business centers.

Airport Restaurants

The Sacramento Executive Airport features an Aviators Restaurant, which is a very popular restaurant that is situated close to the runway at the Sacramento Executive Airport. The restaurant serves all meals from breakfast to dinner and can seat up to 190 individuals.

Why Choose Sacramento Executive Airport?

Although Sacramento Executive Airport does not feature any large commercial aircraft, the following list provides reasons why Sacramento Executive Airport is better than other airports:

• Fast and less congested than other airports

• Ideal for charter flights

• Situated close to the Sacramento city center

• Provides complete aviation services

• Historical importance

Conclusion

While Sacramento Executive Airport is not as famous as other airports, it still adds value to the area in the aviation industry. Starting from Sutterville Aerodrome in the past until today, Sacramento Executive Airport continues to provide its aviation services to many people.

If you are a pilot, aviation lover, or simply someone who wants an airport closer to you compared to other airports, then Sacramento Executive Airport can be the right choice for you.