Santa Barbara, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) earned a spot among the 20 finalists in USA TODAY’s Best Small Airport category, a reader‑voted competition that runs through October 5. The nomination comes on the heels of a record‑setting year for the airport, with nearly 1.5 million passengers traveling through its terminals.
Record passenger traffic fuels recognition
Last year, SBA saw a surge in travelers, surpassing any previous annual total. The increase reflects both the airport’s convenient location for residents of Santa Barbara and the surrounding county and the expansion of nonstop service to new destinations. Airlines added routes and increased frequencies, giving passengers more options to begin their trips closer to home rather than driving to larger regional hubs.
Why travelers prefer SBA
Passengers consistently cite the airport’s smaller size and easy access as major advantages. Shorter security lines, a more relaxed atmosphere, and quick parking options contrast with the congestion often experienced at larger airports farther inland. For families and business travelers alike, those factors translate into saved time and reduced stress.
Community impact
The airport’s growth supports the local economy by creating jobs, boosting tourism, and encouraging business travel. Hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets near the terminal have reported higher patronage, while the broader Santa Barbara County tourism board expects the increased visibility to attract more visitors during the upcoming holiday season.
How voting works
USA TODAY’s Best Small Airport award is determined by public voting. Readers can cast their votes online through the competition’s website until October 5. SBA’s inclusion as a finalist gives the community a chance to rally behind the airport and help it secure the top honor.
Looking ahead
Airport officials say they will continue to pursue additional nonstop routes and infrastructure improvements to accommodate future growth. Plans include expanding the terminal’s gate area, enhancing baggage handling systems, and exploring sustainable energy initiatives to reduce the airport’s carbon footprint.
Local leaders have praised the airport’s achievements, noting that a thriving regional hub aligns with the community’s values of family‑friendly travel, economic opportunity, and responsible stewardship of resources.
Residents who wish to support SBA’s bid can visit the USA TODAY voting page and select Santa Barbara Airport as their choice before the October 5 deadline.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
