History of the AWOS issue

In the early summer of 2020, the Torrance control tower cut back its operating hours due to staffing issues resulting from COVID-19 pandemic. The control tower at John Wayne airport closed for several days for the same reason. Other airports were similarly affected.

As a pilot approached one of these destination airport, he/she needed some critical information to make a safe arrival:

• Altimeter setting (so that the pilot has accurate information about clearance from obstacles and can fly the traffic pattern at the correct altitude above the ground)
• Wind speed, direction and gusts (so that the pilot can prepare to apply the appropriate procedures to counter them)
• Ceiling and visibility (so the pilot knows if he/she can legally approach and land at that airport)
• Runway in use (so that the pilot can safely merge into any existing traffic)
• Common traffic advisory frequency (so that the pilot can announce her/his location and intentions to other traffic and understand their locations and intentions)

When the tower is closed, this information is provided by an automated Weather observation system (AWOS). Torrance is the only airport in Southern California without such an automated system. As a result, we experienced several close calls as transient pilots, unfamiliar with Torrance, did not safely integrate with our traffic pattern. In a survey, 94% of the avition community at Torrance Airport said they wanted AWOS installed.

TAA researched AWOS systems and found they are quite affordable--costing less than all currently-budgeted airport projects. In a letter, dated January 18, 2021, TAA shared this information with the City Council.

TAA has learned that City Staff will recommend the acquisition of an AWOS for the airport, funded by redirecting funds already approved for an East Ts Pilot Lounge (a project with little support from the aviation community). Although the Airport Commission will not be involved in this decision, TAA has encouraged them to write a letter to City Council supporting the staff recommendation.