MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Please join 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), US Navy Seabees and the Catalina Island Conservancy Jan. 25 on Catalina Island to visit the “Airport in the Sky” where approximately 100 Marines and Sailors are repairing the aging main runway.
This is an opportunity to tour the runway that Marines are repairing and see and how Marines operate in an expeditionary field environment. Marines, Sailors and Catalina Island Conservancy members, to include President and CEO Tony Budrovich, will provide tours and conduct interviews showcasing the unique project.
Space is limited for this event. Contact 2nd Lt. Zachary Bodner at 858-577-4823 or
3rdmawmedia@usmc.mil by Jan. 22 to RSVP.
The Catalina Island Airport in the Sky project falls under the Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) program. The IRT program creates a mutually beneficial opportunity between the DoD and civilian communities. DoD personnel can be used to assist organizations with addressing community needs when such assistance is incidental to military training or is otherwise authorized by law. The purpose is to build upon the long-standing tradition of the Armed Forces of the United States, acting as good neighbors at the local level by applying military personnel to assist worthy civic and community needs.
Media are responsible for their own transportation to the island and, if they choose to stay overnight, their own accommodations in Avalon. Transportation is available via Island Express Helicopters out of Long Beach or the Catalina Express, which departs from Dana Point and Long Beach. 3rd MAW will provide transportation from Avalon to the airport and later back to Avalon. Shuttles will leave at 7.20 a.m. and 11 a.m. The trip from Avalon to the airport is 45 minutes. Dress comfortably with hiking boots or other comfortable walking shoes. Wear long pants or jeans and bring layers because of varying temperatures. The Catalina Island Conservancy will provide lunch.
There is no Wi-Fi at the airport and cellular connection may be degraded.
For those traveling by ferry, take the 6 a.m. or 9:50 a.m. Catalina Express from Long Beach to Avalon Jan. 25) or the ferry from Dana Point at 9:45 a.m. Another option is to arrive the night before and stay overnight. Transportation from the ferry docks to the airport will be provided.
For those traveling by helicopter, plan to arrive around 7 a.m. or 10:50 a.m. to coincide with those arriving by boat. Transportation will be provided from the heliport to the airport.
Reserve your return ferry trips for the 11:45 a.m., 2:45 p.m., or 3:50 p.m. Jan. 25.
The Marines and Sailors from 3rd MAW are excited to partner with the Catalina Island Conservancy and assist in repairing the “Airport in the Sky” while providing a service to the local community. The project helps us remain trained, ready, relevant and responsive to emergency requirements across the globe.
3rd MAW is an operationally-focused unit full of hardworking and dedicated Marines, Sailors, and civilians that provide combat-ready aviation forces as an integral part of the Marine Air Ground Task Force. 3rd MAW is capable of conducting missions across the range of military operations and continues to promote the defense of our nation and its interests.
-USMC