29 August 2025

CCAD Maintenance crews have been working daily to repaint navigational markings on the airfield. The work is required every two years by the FAA. It is one of the many requirements to maintain commercial air service authorized by the Part 139 certification. 

The markings are universal to airports no matter where they are located in the world. Pilots are trained to use them when landing, taking off, and navigating an airport.

Two years ago the district acquired the necessary equipment and trained staff to do the work.  It has saved the district tens of thousands of dollars.  With coastal weather being unpredictable, it saved in travel and staging costs by bringing the work in-house as opposed to contracting with firms outside of the area. 

During the summer, fog banks can form off the coast because of heat from the valley. The wet fog gets pulled onto land creating smaller windows to do the painting. Contractors also had to to wait for the fog lift and the ground to dry out. Maintenance crews can now do the work when it’s convenient.

The work requires special training for applicators, high-quality thermoplastic paint, and glass beads to make it highly visible and reflective in any lighting situation.