Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of San Diego County, seven nautical miles northeast of Ramona, lies the Flying T Ranch Airport. This privately owned airport, identified by the FAA as CA76, isn’t your typical bustling hub. Flying T Ranch Airport offers a unique glimpse into a different kind of aviation world. Its single 2000-foot turf-dirt runway speaks to its rustic charm. Established in April 1970, this airport has a history as rich as the surrounding landscape. Owned by Galen F. Tustison, the Flying T Ranch Airport serves a private purpose. It’s a place where the love of flight meets the tranquility of the Californian countryside. The airport’s elevation of 2500 feet provides stunning views. Pilots can contact the airport by phone at 619-789-2200 to activate the Low Intensity Runway Lights for Runway 03/21. Interestingly, there’s no landing fee. This reflects the welcoming spirit of this unique aviation haven. A word of caution though: be mindful of the dirt strip and the occasional presence of cattle in the field and on the runway. Always do a fly-by before landing. For clearance delivery, pilots should contact Los Angeles ARTCC at 661-575-2079. Two aircraft call Flying T Ranch Airport home: a single-engine airplane and a multi-engine airplane. While Flying T Ranch Airport might not offer the amenities of larger airports, it holds a special allure. It’s a reminder that aviation can be as much about personal passion as it is about commercial travel.
Sweetwater River
From high in the Cuyamaca Mountains, the Sweetwater River begins its journey. It’s a 55-mile trek to the Pacific, a