The Catalina
Pilots
Shortly before World War II, the tops of two mountains were leveled and the canyon
between was filled in to build Catalina's airport runway. When the war started,
logs, boulders, and barbed wire were placed across the unfinished runway to prevent
it being used in case of an enemy attack. Building resumed immediately after
the war and the runway was finished and the terminal erected. The airport overlooks
the rolling hills and the ocean and welcomes private pilots to visit.
The Catalina Pilots support the work of the Conservancy and particularly enjoy
flying to Catalina's Airport-in-the-Sky and often catch the shuttle into Avalon
to spend the day. Besides being members, many contribute to various Conservancy
projects.
