Sacramento Executive Airport

Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is a charming air gateway located just a few minutes' drive from the centre of California's capital. In the past, it was the city's main gateway, but today it serves as an elite hub for business aviation, private pilots, and corporate charters, preserving the spirit of classic travel. The cosy atmosphere and lack of hustle and bustle typical of large international hubs make it the ideal choice for those who value time and privacy. Flight schools are based here, and exciting sightseeing flights are conducted, offering a bird's-eye view of the picturesque Sacramento Valley.

Features and Advantages

Sacramento Executive Airport is distinguished by a number of unique characteristics that make it an important and convenient facility in the region's transport infrastructure:

• Convenient Location: The airport is located just 5–6 kilometres from the business centre (Downtown Sacramento), allowing you to reach key offices and attractions, such as the State Capitol, in literally 10–15 minutes.
• Pilot Infrastructure: The complex offers a full range of aircraft services (FBO), including refuelling, hangar rental, and technical service, making it extremely popular among private jet owners.
• Historical Value: This is the oldest airport in the city, opened back in 1930. The terminal building and the general atmosphere retain a classic aviation style, attracting history enthusiasts.
• Gastronomic Experience: The renowned Aviators Restaurant is located on the premises, where visitors can enjoy lunch with a panoramic view of the runway, watching take-offs and landings.
• No Queues: Thanks to its specialisation in general aviation, there are no tiresome security screening procedures or long check-in queues characteristic of large commercial airports.

• Official Airport Website: sacramento.aero/sac
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 916-875-9035 (Airport Administration)
• Airport Address: 6151 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95822, USA
• Email: There is no direct address for passengers; it is recommended to use the feedback form or contact the Sacramento County Department of Airports.
• Airport Social Media: Current news is published on the Sacramento County Department of Airports pages on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) under the handle @FlySMF.
• Lost and Found Information: Since the terminal serves general aviation, for lost items, you should contact the airport administration directly at +1 916-875-9035.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For prompt resolution of issues, it is recommended to call the administration during business hours (from 08:00 to 17:00) or use the online form on the official website.

Transport Accessibility and Directions

Thanks to its location within the city limits, getting to Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is much easier and faster than reaching large international hubs. The air harbour is located on Freeport Boulevard, just 6 kilometres south of the central business district. This makes the trip short and untiring.

Important Note: Before planning your route, make sure you need this specific airport. If you have a ticket for a scheduled flight with a major airline (e.g., Delta, United, or Southwest), you most likely need Sacramento International Airport (SMF), which is located 20 kilometres northwest of the centre.

By Car and Taxi

Travelling by car is the most popular way to get to the airport, especially for those who value time or are carrying luggage.

• Taxi and Ridesharing: Uber and Lyft services operate very actively in Sacramento. A trip from the city centre (Downtown/Midtown) will take just 10–15 minutes in the absence of heavy traffic.
  • Estimated Cost: $15–25 one way (depends on demand and time of day).
• Private Car: Driving from the centre, follow the I-5 South motorway, exit onto Sutterville Road, and turn onto Freeport Boulevard. The route is intuitive, and navigation systems lead precisely to the main entrance.

Public Transport

For budget-conscious travellers or those not in a hurry, the SacRT city transport system offers convenient options.

• Bus: Route No. 62 runs directly along Freeport Boulevard and has a stop in close proximity to the terminal entrance. Buses run regularly, connecting the area with the city centre and the metro station.
  • Travel Time: About 20–30 minutes from the centre.
  • Cost: The base fare is approximately $2.50.
• Light Rail: The Blue Line runs nearby. The nearest station is City College Station. From the station to the terminal, you can walk (about 15–20 minutes) or take a bus. This is an excellent option to avoid traffic jams during peak hours.

Parking and Car Rental

Since the airport is focused on business aviation, the parking situation here is much more pleasant than at major airports.

Parking: A spacious parking zone is located in front of the terminal building. For visitors to the Aviators Restaurant and short-term visits, parking is generally free. There are also zones for long-term parking, the conditions of which are best clarified with the administration upon arrival.

Car Rental: You can rent a car on the airport territory (usually through the FBO operator, Sacramento Executive Jet Center). Major rental companies, such as Enterprise, are represented here. It is recommended to book a car in advance so that it is brought to you by the time of your arrival.

Connections to Other Regional Airports

If your trip involves a transfer to an international flight or you have arrived at the wrong airport, you can reach neighbouring aviation hubs by taxi or rental car. Distances to the nearest major airports:

• Oakland International Airport (OAK): About 108 km (1.5–2 hours on the road).
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Approximately 126 km. This is one of the largest hubs on the West Coast; the journey will take from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.
• San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC): Located 133 km to the south, in the heart of Silicon Valley.
• Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS): Located 115 km away, convenient for travelling through the wine region.

Terminal Structure and Navigation

Unlike large international hubs with their confusing labyrinths of passageways, Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is arranged as simply and clearly as possible. It is a classic example of a general aviation airport, where all infrastructure is designed to save time for pilots and private passengers.

Number of Terminals: The airport has one main terminal building. It is a compact three-storey structure that combines administrative offices, waiting areas, and service departments. Around the main building, there are hangars and offices of Fixed Base Operators (FBO), which also act as mini-terminals for receiving private aircraft.

Map and Airport Zones

Navigation around the territory is intuitive even for those here for the first time. The complex can be roughly divided into several key zones:

• Main Lobby: The central entrance leads to a cosy public hall. Here you can meet the crew, use the restrooms, or simply rest while waiting for departure. The interior retains a retro style, creating a calm atmosphere.
• FBO Zone (Fixed Base Operators): If you are flying on a private charter, you will most likely be invited not to the general hall, but to the office of a specific operator (for example, Sacramento Executive Jet Center). These are separate buildings or annexes with their own lounge zones, located to the left or right of the main terminal.
• Departure and Arrival Zone: There are no familiar "gates" with jet bridges here. Access to aircraft is carried out directly from the terminal building or FBO office onto the apron (tarmac), from where passengers walk to the aircraft stairs or are driven by special transport.
• Observation Deck: One of the "highlights" of the building's structure is the flight observation zone, accessible to the public. It is an open area offering an excellent view of the runways.

Check-in and Screening Procedures

The main advantage of SAC over commercial airports is the absence of tiresome formalities. Since there are no scheduled flights by major airlines here, the structure of procedures looks completely different:

• Check-in: There are no classic check-in counters or baggage drops here. Passengers on charter flights simply meet their pilot or company representative at the appointed time.
• Security: The terminal lacks TSA screening zones with metal detector frames and scanners characteristic of large airports. Security checks are carried out according to simplified private aviation protocols, allowing you to go from the car park to the aircraft seat in literally 10–15 minutes.
• Passport Control: The airport is not an international Port of Entry for scheduled flights, so customs control zones for mass passenger flow are not provided here.

Navigation Recommendations

To ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible, use the following tips:

1. Confirm the Meeting Place: If you are flying on a private jet, be sure to find out from your broker or pilot in advance exactly where they are expecting you: at the main terminal or at an FBO office (addresses may differ slightly, although they are on the same territory).
2. Parking: Leave your car in the main car park in front of the terminal. The distance from the car to the entrance is only a few dozen metres.
3. Accessibility: The building is equipped for citizens with reduced mobility; all main passageways are on one level or equipped with ramps and lifts.

History and Development Stages

Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is not just a transport hub, but a living monument to California's aviation history. It was founded and grandly opened in 1930 under the name "Sacramento Municipal Airport". At that time, aviation was just beginning to become mass-market, and opening its own air harbour was an important step for the city, which sought to secure its status as an important logistics centre on the West Coast.

For several decades, the airport served as the main air gateway to the state capital. It received scheduled passenger flights from the largest airlines of that time, connecting Sacramento with other US cities. However, with the advent of the "Jet Age" in the 1950s and 60s, it became obvious that the existing runways were too short for new heavy liners, and the location within the city limits restricted opportunities for large-scale expansion.

The turning point came in 1967, when the new Sacramento International Airport (SMF) was opened. From that moment, scheduled commercial flights were transferred to the new harbour, and the old airport received its current name — Sacramento Executive Airport. It changed its profile, focusing on serving private, corporate aviation, and general aviation, a role it successfully fulfils to this day.

Military Period and Modernisation

Like many American airports, SAC played its role during the Second World War. In the 1940s, it came under military control and was used by the US Army Air Forces. Pilot training and aircraft technical support were conducted here. After the war ended, the airport was returned to civilian authorities, retaining the improved infrastructure inherited from the military.

Throughout its long history, the complex has been modernised repeatedly. Significant reconstructions concerned the renewal of runway surfaces, the installation of modern lighting equipment and navigation systems, which allows for the safe reception of aircraft in any weather conditions. At the same time, the administration carefully preserves the historic appearance of the main terminal, trying to maintain its unique retro charm.

Interesting Facts and Achievements

The history of Sacramento Executive Airport is full of curious details that make it a special place for aviation enthusiasts:

• Oldest in the Region: It is the oldest operating airport in Sacramento and one of the oldest municipal airports in California, operating continuously since 1930.
• Architectural Heritage: The car park and terminal building have retained features of classic mid-20th-century architecture. Many tourists come here specifically to take atmospheric photos in the style of the "Golden Age of Aviation".
• Celebrity Guests: During its heyday as the city's main airport, the terminal saw many celebrities, politicians, and Hollywood stars flying into the capital of California.
• Base for Emergency Services: Thanks to its convenient location in the centre, the airport is often used as a base for news channel helicopters, police, and medical evacuation.
• Record Traffic: Despite the absence of large liners, SAC remains one of the busiest general aviation airports in the state, annually serving tens of thousands of take-offs and landings of private aircraft.

Services and Amenities in the Terminal

Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is a general aviation facility, so you will not find huge Duty-Free zones or food courts here, which are customary for international hubs. Services here are focused on speed, functionality, and comfort for private passengers and pilots. The atmosphere is intimate, calm, and conducive to rest before a flight.

Restaurants and Shops

The gastronomic component of the airport deserves special attention, as it attracts not only travellers but also locals.

• Aviators Restaurant: The main "gem" of the airport. This is a popular restaurant located directly in the terminal building. It is famous for its American-style breakfasts and brunches (omelettes, burgers, sandwiches). The main feature of the establishment is the large panoramic windows overlooking the runway directly. It is the ideal place to have a bite while watching aircraft take off and land.
• Shops: There are no large retail outlets at the airport. However, in FBO zones (at ground handling operators), you can often purchase essential items for the flight, aviation charts, souvenirs with symbols, or light snacks.

Lounges and Business Services

The airport infrastructure is designed to satisfy the needs of business people who value their time.

• VIP Service and Lounges: Private flight passengers usually use the services of FBO terminals (for example, Sacramento Executive Jet Center). Comfortable lounge zones with soft sofas, televisions, and complimentary refreshments (coffee, tea, water) are equipped here. These are quiet spaces where you can work calmly or rest before departure without excess noise.
• Wi-Fi and Communication: Free wireless internet access is provided both in the main terminal and in FBO buildings.
• Conference Rooms: For conducting business meetings "on the fly", conference rooms are provided at the airport. They can be rented through the airport administration or FBO operators. This is a convenient option for those arriving in Sacramento for negotiations who want to conduct them without leaving the airfield territory.

Financial and Medical Services

• ATMs: An ATM is usually available in the main terminal building for withdrawing US dollars. There are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange points here, as the airport does not serve mass international flights. It is recommended to take care of currency exchange in advance, in the city.
• Medical Assistance: There is no specialised medical centre or pharmacy in the terminal. In emergencies, staff call city rescue services, which arrive promptly considering the location within the city limits.

Passengers with Children

Although there are no specialised playrooms at the airport, children are usually not bored here thanks to the view opening onto the airfield.

• Entertainment: The best activity for young travellers is watching planes from Aviators Restaurant or the observation deck. Small aircraft fly frequently, and children can examine small planes and helicopters up close.
• Amenities: Facilities for child care are provided in the terminal's public restrooms.

Accessible Environment

Sacramento Executive Airport fully complies with American accessibility standards (ADA):

• The terminal building is equipped with ramps and automatic doors.
• Restrooms are adapted for passengers with disabilities.
• FBO staff are always ready to provide assistance with boarding and disembarking from the aircraft, as well as delivering a passenger in a wheelchair directly to the stairs.

Hotels Nearby

There are no hotels on the territory of the airport itself, but thanks to the convenient location, comfortable accommodation can be reached in 5–10 minutes.

• The Westin Sacramento: One of the nearest and most prestigious hotels, located on the banks of the Sacramento River, just 3–4 km from the airport. An excellent choice for those seeking premium comfort and spa services.
• Motel 6 Sacramento, CA - Downtown: A budget accommodation option located in close proximity to the airport. Suitable for transit passengers or crews.
• Hotels in the Centre (Downtown): Since the city centre is only 6 km away, passengers often choose hotels near the Capitol, such as Hyatt Regency Sacramento or Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, to combine the trip with sightseeing or business meetings.

Dining at the Airport: Quality Over Quantity

Unlike large international hubs with endless rows of fast food and coffee shops, Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) offers its guests a completely different experience. There are no familiar food courts here, however, the gastronomic component of the airport is considered one of its main attractions, for which even those who are not flying anywhere come here.

It is important to consider that the main establishment is located in the public zone (landside), before passing any control procedures. This means that pilots and passengers, as well as those seeing them off or simply tourists, can visit it.

Aviators Restaurant

The heart of the terminal is the legendary Aviators Restaurant. It is a classic American diner that immerses visitors in the atmosphere of the "Golden Age of Aviation". The interior is decorated with model aircraft and historical photographs, but the main magnet serves to be the huge panoramic windows overlooking the apron and runways directly.

Here you can enjoy a meal while watching private planes and helicopters take off and land — a spectacle that children and romantics especially like.

• Cuisine and Signature Dishes: The restaurant menu offers hearty American classics. It is the ideal place for a substantial breakfast or lunch.
  • What to try: Locals especially recommend their signature Chinese Chicken Salad, which is considered one of the best in the city. Classic burgers, Reuben sandwiches, and fluffy omelettes are also popular.
• Location: Main terminal building, 2nd floor (entrance from the main lobby, landside zone).
• Opening Hours: The restaurant operates only during the daytime.
  • Weekdays: from 07:00 to 14:00 (or until 15:00 depending on the season).
  • Weekends: from 07:00 to 14:00.
  • Attention: The establishment is closed for dinner.
• Average Bill: Prices are democratic; lunch will cost approximately $15–25 per person.

Dietary Catering and Special Requests

Since only one restaurant operates at the airport, the choice for people with strict dietary restrictions may be limited, however, the staff usually accommodate guests.

• Vegetarians: The Aviators Restaurant menu has a large selection of salads, egg dishes, pancakes, and toast.
• Gluten-Free: There is no specialised menu, but many dishes (for example, salads or omelettes) naturally do not contain gluten. It is recommended to clarify the composition of sauces with the waiter.
• Vegans and Halal: Options for strict vegans and those observing Halal are limited. It is recommended to stick to beverages and simple snacks (fruit, vegetable salads without dressing) or arrange meals in advance.

Quick Snacks and Catering for Private Flights

For those in a hurry or departing on a private jet, other service formats are provided:

• In FBO Zones (Private Aviation Terminals): In operator lounges (for example, Sacramento Executive Jet Center), complimentary coffee, tea, water, fresh pastries, or biscuits are usually available for passengers and crews. There are no full-fledged cafes in these zones.
• In-flight Catering: If you are flying on a private charter and plan to have lunch in flight, food must be ordered in advance through your broker or FBO operator. Local catering services can deliver any haute cuisine dishes on board, including a specialised dietary menu.
• Nearby Options: If Aviators Restaurant is closed, literally across the road from the airport, on Freeport Blvd, there are many cafes and restaurants, including bakeries and a Raley’s supermarket, where you can buy ready-made meal kits to take away.

Useful Tips for Passengers

Travelling through Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) differs radically from the experience of flying through large international hubs. There is no fuss, endless queues, or stress here. However, the specifics of private and business aviation dictate their own rules of etiquette and preparation. Follow these recommendations so that your visit goes flawlessly.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early". In the world of business aviation, time is the most valuable resource.

• For Domestic Departures: It is usually sufficient to arrive at the terminal or FBO office 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This time is enough to meet the pilot, hand over luggage, and proceed to the aircraft.
• If You Want to Visit the Restaurant: Since Aviators Restaurant is a local landmark, it makes sense to arrive an hour or an hour and a half before departure to calmly have breakfast or lunch with a view of the runway.
• Punctuality: Although a private plane waits specifically for you, severe delays can lead to the loss of a departure slot, especially if the route passes through busy airspace.

Check-in, Security, and Seat Selection

Procedures at SAC are simplified as much as possible but require compliance with certain norms.

• Documents: Despite the absence of strict TSA control, you must have identification with you (passport or driving licence). The pilot is obliged to verify the identities of all passengers before take-off.
• No Shoes and Belts Removal: You will not have to take off your shoes or take laptops out of bags. Screening, if conducted, is formal in nature and takes mere minutes.
• Seat Selection on the Plane: Online check-in and seat selection in an app do not work here. Seating is managed by the pilot in command (PIC). For small aircraft, centre of gravity (weight balance) is critical, so the pilot may ask you to take a specific seat. Do not argue with the crew — this is a matter of your safety.

Luggage and Hand Luggage: What is Important to Know

Baggage allowance rules in private aviation often depend on the type of aircraft, not on general bans.

• Type of Bags: For flights on small jets or turboprop aircraft, it is strongly recommended to use soft bags instead of rigid plastic suitcases. Luggage compartments of private planes often have non-standard shapes, and rigid cases may simply not fit there.
• Liquids: The "100 ml rule" usually does not apply here. You can bring your favourite beverage, full-sized shampoo, or other liquids on board if not prohibited by the specific operator's rules.
• Prohibited Items: Weapons, explosives, and dangerous chemicals are strictly prohibited, just as in any aviation.
• Pets: Private aviation is the most loyal way to travel with pets. Often they can fly directly in the cabin next to you, but the operator must be notified about this in advance.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers

If Sacramento Executive is just an intermediate point on your route, consider the following:

Connection with Scheduled Flights: SAC does not receive flights from major airlines. If you need to transfer to a United or Delta flight, you need to get to Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Allow a minimum of 30–40 minutes of pure travel time by taxi for the transfer between airports, plus a margin for traffic jams.

Changing Private Aircraft: If you are transferring from one private plane to another within SAC, simply move from one aircraft to the other or wait in the FBO lounge. Luggage will be transferred by ground service staff.

Customs Control

Sacramento Executive Airport is focused on domestic flights. There is no permanent Customs and Border Protection (CBP) zone here.

• If you are flying from abroad, your flight will most likely first make a technical landing at a "Port of Entry" airport to complete formalities before heading to SAC.
• In rare cases, customs officers can be summoned directly to SAC by prior request, but this requires complex organisation and additional costs. Clarify this point with your charter broker.

Tips for Saving Time and Money

• Dining: Ordering catering on board a private plane can cost hundreds of dollars. It will be much more economical and tastier to eat at Aviators Restaurant before departure or order takeout food there, which you can take with you on the plane.
• Transport: It is not necessary to order an expensive limousine service. Uber and Lyft arrive directly at the terminal exit in minutes and cost a reasonable amount.
• Parking: Use the free parking (if your visit is short-term) or check with the FBO operator about the possibility of leaving your car on their secured territory, which is often included in the flight service cost.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Delays in private aviation happen less often, but if weather or technical reasons keep you on the ground:

1. Do Not Sit in the Plane: Ask to be escorted back to the FBO lounge. There is Wi-Fi, soft chairs, coffee, and a television there.
2. Visit the Observation Deck: This is an excellent way to relieve stress. Watching other planes take off is calming.
3. Use Time Productively: If the delay is long and you arrived for business, rent a conference room right at the airport so as not to lose a working day.