** Breaking News - SOCAL - 1725Z **

[CactusDx 0]

Brush fires have pushed to within 2 miles of SOCAL TRACON. Controllers have now evacuated the TRACON and all flights to the SOCAL region are now ground-stopped. ZLA is now in the process of assuming responsibility for approach control - expect significant miles in trail restrictions when operations resume. Updates to follow..M. CollierDispatcher/SOCAmerica West AirlinesKPHX

[N2056 33]

The above is but a small part of what is gonna be the worst disaster in the city's history. Currently at 80,000+ acres and threatening heavily populated suburbs. Outside the ash is falling like snow, smoke is thick in the air, and it's steadily getting darker. I thank God my house is not in immediate threat. Robert

[bdenni 0]

Is SOCAL TRACON the former San Diego Approach/Departure located just outside the MCAS Miramar? I trained there on the ARTSIII radar back in the mid 70's when the facility was on the first floor of the tower building at Miramar.

[N2056 33]

That's the one...the fire has been on the base, and there has been concern that the fire could go to the sea. It started in Ramona, which is about 20-30 miles inland. There are currently only 2 air tankers on scene due to all the other fires in SoCal. The Mayor has declared a state of emergency in the city.Robert

[N2056 33]

Just reported...100K acres gone, 10 dead, no end in sight...I'm watching the local news and it's really just stunning. Now reports of a small plane down near KMYF...Robert

[CactusDx 0]

SO-CAL - Update 2245ZAll SO-CAL airports remain in a ground stop with an update at 2300Z. ZLA is handling diverted traffic and internals first. LAX is expected to transition out of ground stop and into a ground delay program at 2300Z. Flights will be released on EDCT's. Expect 30 miles in trail. SO-CAL personnel are en route to regional airports to begin working approach control from their respective towers. Estimates for personnel in place with equipment functional is 6-8 hours. Thoughts are with those that have lost lives and property. Hopefully fire professionals will be able to contain the blaze soon..M. CollierDispatcher/SOCAmerica West AirlinesKPHX

[N2056 33]

Reports are that a Mooney 231 went down trying to land with the wind and in IMC. Ended up in the median of the freeway at the west end of the runway. Currently looking at tape of the burning hulk. Reports say pilot O.K. KMYF was actually evacuated 'bout 2 hours ago. Gotta appreciate the small miracle on this one...Robert

[B777ER 2,491]

Kudo's to the FAA in scattering the SOCAL guys and gals to the airports to keep things running.