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Barstow, California, does not have a large commercial airport with major passenger flights like some nearby cities, but it is served by a couple of smaller airports and airfields that cater to general aviation, private flights, and cargo operations. Here's a detailed overview of the airports and airfields in and around Barstow:

1. Barstow-Daggett Airport (DAG)

• Location: 28000 Mountain View Road, Daggett, CA 92327 (about 10 miles southeast of Barstow)

• Type: Public-use general aviation airport

• Runways: The airport has one main runway (Runway 17/35) that is 4,145 feet long, which is sufficient for small private aircraft, light commercial planes, and cargo aircraft. It also has a taxiway and other facilities for general aviation operations.

• Facilities: Barstow-Daggett Airport is equipped with basic amenities such as a small terminal, aircraft parking, and refueling services. There is no major commercial airline service, but it is frequently used by private pilots, charter companies, and flight schools.

• What It’s Known For: This airport serves as a hub for local flights and private aircraft. It’s also a popular spot for small aircraft transiting the area, given its proximity to both Barstow and the surrounding Mojave Desert. While it doesn’t handle significant commercial traffic, it's an important facility for aviation in the region.

Why It’s Relevant for Barstow Visitors:

• Proximity: Located just a short drive from Barstow, it's the primary option for any private or charter flights coming in or out of Barstow.

• Private Aircraft and Pilots: If you're traveling privately or planning a flight in or out of Barstow, this is the airport you’d likely use.

• Cargo Flights: While it doesn't have large-scale commercial services, it can handle small-scale cargo flights or specialized transportation needs.

2. Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA)

• Location: 18345 Phantom West, Victorville, CA 92394 (about 45 minutes west of Barstow)

• Type: Public-use airport and former military base converted into a major logistics and air cargo hub

• Runways: Southern California Logistics Airport boasts multiple runways, with the main runway (Runway 17/35) stretching 15,000 feet in length. It’s one of the longest runways in California, capable of handling large aircraft like Boeing 747s and other commercial freighters.

• Facilities: This airport offers robust infrastructure for both passenger and cargo flights. It is home to various aviation services, including maintenance, fueling, and hangar facilities. SCLA also serves as the headquarters for several aviation companies and logistics firms.

• What It’s Known For: Originally a military base (George Air Force Base), SCLA has been repurposed as a major hub for air freight and logistics, making it one of the busiest cargo airports in Southern California. It’s also used for aircraft testing and military operations.

• Why Visit: While SCLA does not have regular commercial passenger flights, it is a major airport for air cargo and freight operations. It also occasionally hosts special events, like aircraft exhibitions and test flights.

Why It’s Relevant for Barstow Visitors:

• Cargo Flights: For larger shipments and freight coming into or out of the Barstow area, Southern California Logistics Airport is the closest major airport capable of handling large cargo operations.

• Alternative to Daggett: If you're coming to Barstow via private jet or small commercial flight, SCLA may be a better option for larger aircraft.

3. Victorville Airport (VV)

• Location: 16800 C St, Victorville, CA 92394 (about 45 minutes west of Barstow)

• Type: General aviation and commercial aviation services

• Runways: Victorville Airport has a runway length of 7,000 feet, suitable for general aviation and smaller commercial aircraft.

• Facilities: Victorville offers basic services for general aviation, such as fueling, maintenance, and hangar space. The airport is primarily used by smaller aircraft, but it does have some commercial and charter flight activity as well. There’s also a focus on aviation training and private aircraft services.

• What It’s Known For: Victorville Airport has a significant history in aviation, particularly as a hub for aircraft storage and recycling (it’s home to a large aircraft boneyard). The airport also supports various aviation companies offering charter flights, flight schools, and maintenance services.

Why It’s Relevant for Barstow Visitors:

• Charter Flights: If you're coming to Barstow on a private charter or smaller flight, Victorville Airport is a feasible alternative to Barstow-Daggett, being only about 45 minutes away.

• Accessibility: Located just to the west of Barstow, Victorville Airport is one of the more accessible airports for regional travel, offering a good mix of commercial and private aviation services.

4. Ontario International Airport (ONT)

• Location: 2500 E. Airport Drive, Ontario, CA 91761 (approximately 1.5 hours southwest of Barstow)

• Type: Major international commercial airport

• Runways: Ontario Airport has multiple runways and is capable of handling large passenger jets and freight flights. Its largest runway is 11,000 feet long, suitable for all commercial aircraft.

• Facilities: Ontario International is a fully-fledged commercial airport with multiple terminals, an array of dining options, rental car services, and ample ground transportation options. It offers both domestic and international flights, connecting passengers to major cities across the U.S. and around the world.

• What It’s Known For: Ontario is a key airport for the Inland Empire region of Southern California, and it is particularly popular for serving residents in smaller cities like Barstow, as well as travelers headed to nearby attractions like Disneyland or the San Bernardino Mountains.

Why It’s Relevant for Barstow Visitors:

• Longer Distance, Bigger City: Ontario International is the closest major commercial airport for Barstow residents and visitors looking for mainstream flight options. If you’re planning to fly commercially and don’t mind a 1.5-hour drive, Ontario Airport offers a range of options in terms of airlines and destinations.

• Accessibility to Southern California: Given its location, Ontario is a good airport choice for those traveling to or from Barstow, especially if you need direct flights to larger cities.

5. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

• Location: 3400 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 (about 2 hours south of Barstow)

• Type: Regional commercial airport

• Runways: Palm Springs International has two runways, the longest being 10,000 feet, which can handle large commercial aircraft. The airport primarily serves domestic flights but also offers some international connections.

• Facilities: Palm Springs Airport is a smaller commercial airport but has a full range of services, including terminals, baggage handling, rental car services, and dining options. The airport is known for its ease of use, shorter lines, and relaxed atmosphere compared to larger airports in the region.

• What It’s Known For: Palm Springs International is a popular gateway for tourists visiting the Coachella Valley and surrounding desert areas. The airport is especially busy during the winter months when visitors flock to the region for its warm weather.

Why It’s Relevant for Barstow Visitors:

• Longer Drive: Although it's a bit further away, Palm Springs International provides another option for travelers coming to Barstow. It’s ideal if you're looking for a more relaxed airport experience or heading to the Coachella Valley after Barstow.

Conclusion:

While Barstow itself doesn’t have a major commercial airport, Barstow-Daggett Airport is the closest facility for private aviation, charter flights, and small cargo operations. If you're looking for larger-scale commercial services, Ontario International Airport and Southern California Logistics Airport are both within a reasonable driving distance and offer a wider variety of flights and services. For visitors or residents needing access to both general aviation and more extensive services, the surrounding airports provide a solid range of options depending on travel needs.