Opinion: The Untapped Engine of Riverside’s Future-Our Airport

If you ask most residents about our Riverside Airport, they might describe it as a quiet place for small planes or student pilots. But those of us working closely with it know something different: this airport is one of Riverside’s most underutilized assets—and it’s time we change that.

I’ve long believed that elevating the airport’s role in our city is key to unlocking a new wave of economic, educational, and community opportunities. It’s more than just a transportation hub; it’s a platform for workforce development, innovation and civic engagement.

Because of its unique position in the region, Riverside Airport is home to one of the busiest FAA contract towers in the nation—recording more than 144,000 flight operations last year alone. That’s not just a number; it reflects a thriving network of pilot training schools, consistent flight activity, and the kind of aviation ecosystem that many cities would envy.

But the airport’s potential reaches far beyond the runway. In addition to expanding flight training programs, we’re working to grow aerospace education and advanced manufacturing on site. With the right investment and partnerships, we can attract companies that bring high-skill, high-wage jobs to Riverside—careers in avionics, engineering and precision manufacturing. Imagine classrooms for aviation science housed right on airport grounds, or dormant hangars transformed into centers of innovation. That’s the vision we’re building toward.

To shine a light on this future, I recently hosted the city’s first Aerospace Expo at the airport. It wasn’t just a trade event—it was a signal. We brought together students, industry leaders, educators and public officials, including Congressman Mark Takano, Assemblywoman Leticia Castillo, Supervisor Jose Medina and Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. Together, we showcased a shared commitment to making the airport a cornerstone of Riverside’s economic and educational future.

This vision will take collaboration—from local leaders and businesses to schools and families. But what gives me the most hope are moments like meeting Blake, a young attendee at the expo who took flight through the EAA Young Eagles program. Watching his eyes light up as planes soared overhead and seeing his curiosity sparked by the exhibits reminded me exactly who we’re building this for—the next generation of dreamers, builders and doers.

And while aerospace is a major focus, it’s not the whole story. Over the past year, the airport has become a true community gathering space, hosting events like Planes & Treats, which drew more than 15,000 attendees, and the Blue Zones Kickoff, which welcomed thousands more. These events prove something powerful: the airport isn’t just for pilots—it’s for everyone.

What’s happening at Riverside Airport isn’t just about planes—it’s about possibilities. It’s about reimagining what our city can do with the assets we already have. With thoughtful planning, strategic investment and strong community support, the airport can evolve into a regional hub for training, innovation and family-friendly events.

By uniting the three pillars of a strong economy—industry, education and community—Riverside Airport is uniquely positioned to help shape our city’s future. The Aerospace Expo was just the beginning. With continued support from civic leaders, educators, entrepreneurs and residents, we can turn the airport into a launchpad for jobs, learning and civic pride. The future is being built right here in Riverside—and the airport is one of the tools that will help us soar.

This is no longer a hidden corner of the city. The airport is quickly becoming a central part of Riverside’s story. Let’s keep investing in it—not just as a transportation resource, but as a foundation for the next chapter of our shared future.

By City Councilmember Steven Robillard