Santa Paula Airport (SZP in FAA shorthand) was dedicated in August of 1930. Subsequently, the facility has become the home of a world renowned collection of antique airplanes. Active antique aircraft; not dusty museum pieces. This evolution is as interesting as the airplanes.

In disaster is born opportunity. The catastrophe occurred in 1928 with the collapse of the St. Francis Dam and the resultant flooding of the Santa Clara River Valley. Santa Paula suffered a great deal of damage, in particular near the river. The same river you see today at the edge of the runway.

While cleaning up after the flood Ralph Dickenson and a local group of businessmen/aviation enthusiasts noted that a portion of the disaster area could be used for an airfield. One which would serve the community and its growing interest in aviation. In 1930 three farms were purchased by the Santa Paula Airport Association (SPAA). Volunteer labor cleared a runway and eight hangars were erected. Ownership of SZP is still in the hands of the hangar owners and volunteer labor still assists in airport projects. Santa Paula Airport has never received a penny of government assistance.

The SZP of today is a major financial resource for Santa Paula and Ventura County. The combined employment of the firms located on the airport make it one of the largest employers in the City. The property taxes paid on the aircraft and the real estate is substantial. The hometown airshows are a popular community event with considerable financial impact on local charities.

But best of all, kids still grow up on Santa Paula Airport. They grow from gas boys, to flight instructors, to commercial pilots. These same "kids" own wonderful airplanes and tell great stories. Stop at any hanger, step inside, no telling what sort of an airplane or a story you will find waiting.

The airport has a First Sunday of the Month at the Santa Paula Airport" to allow visitors to see aircraft of all ages and types on display with docents on hand to give free tours.