An Insight into Airport Operations at San Carlos

“Ops 1, Ground…” is a radio call heard every now and then at a towered airport like San Carlos. From conducting runway sweeps, to chasing geese away, from fixing taxiway lights, to assisting distressed aircraft, the Airport Operations team plays a fundamental part keeping the airport running smoothly and safely.

San Carlos Flight Center invites Airport Operations Specialist Michael Dutton to give a behind-the-scenes view on what it takes to keep an airport like San Carlos running. This seminar will cover the routine checks that make up the day-to-day lives of the specialists, as well as some of the more special occurrences that operations specialists respond to. We’ll examine the training, equipment, and responsibilities given to the operations personnel, along with investigating safety measures implemented to ensure the airport runs smoothly.

We encourage any pilot to attend as they can now be more vigilant while operating in and around the airport.

Michael Dutton is a commercial pilot with a private rating in helicopters. He’s been flying and working at the San Carlos airport for over seven years, first working for the Flight Center before moving on to Airport Operations. In his off-days, he’s still at the airport as he continues his flight training.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.