CalDART volunteers conduct emergency training at Palo Alto Airport

The Palo Alto chapter of CalDART (Disaster Airlift Response Team) conducted its annual emergency training exercise at the Palo Alto Airport on August 30. Volunteer pilots performed a simulated supply delivery, flying from Concord across the San Francisco Bay to Palo Alto. The exercise, which included a partnership with Contra Costa DART, is a state-required annual drill designed to practice rapid emergency response when ground transport may be delayed.

While the training highlights the utility of the airport for emergency services, the facility remains a subject of local debate. Palo Alto is currently developing a long-term upgrade plan following opposition in 2024 from residents in Palo Alto, East Palo Alto, and Menlo Park regarding runway extensions. Some environmentalists and community members have expressed concerns regarding the airport's impact on the Baylands habitat, with some calling for the airport's closure.