Santa Arrives By Airplane at Los Alamos Airport December 20
The Los Alamos Airport and the Experimental Aircraft Association Green Chile Chapter 691 will host the third annual Santa Fly In on Saturday December 20, offering a free family event with Santa arriving by plane, crafts, snacks, and aircraft displays. The event highlights local civic engagement at a public facility, provides educational exposure to aviation, and requires attendees to follow safety guidance from volunteers and airport staff.
Los Alamos Airport and the Experimental Aircraft Association Green Chile Chapter 691 will welcome families to the third annual Santa Fly In on Saturday December 20 at the Airport Terminal, 1040 Airport Road. The free community event opens to the public at 2 p.m., with Santa scheduled to arrive by airplane at about 2:30 p.m. Families may gather in a designated viewing area to watch the landing, and Santa will be escorted into the terminal to greet children. Activities then continue from 2:40 to 4 p.m. with photo opportunities, craft stations for children, seasonal snacks, and festive music.
Organizers say all supplies for the craft stations will be provided, and a Santa photo backdrop will be available inside the terminal. Ramp aircraft displays hosted by local pilots and airport tenants will be open for viewing if weather and aircraft availability permit. The event serves as both a seasonal celebration and an opportunity for residents to engage with the public airport, meet volunteer pilots, and observe airport operations in a controlled setting.
Safety and access considerations will shape the experience. Volunteers and airport staff will direct attendees, and visitors are asked to remain within marked areas and to avoid touching aircraft unless a pilot specifically invites interaction. Strollers are welcome, while pets are discouraged for safety and noise reasons. These measures underscore the airport authority responsibility to balance public outreach with operational safety at a facility that supports both general aviation and community use.
The Santa Fly In also reflects local civic participation by volunteer organizations working with county-managed infrastructure to produce public programming. For residents seeking more information, contact Airport Manager Gary Goddard at 505.709.8687 or gary.goddard@losalamosnm.gov. The event is free and intended to be family friendly, offering a low barrier opportunity for residents to connect with county services and community volunteers during the holiday season.
