Hollister Municipal Airport (HLI)

Hollister Municipal Airport (HLI), identified by its ICAO code KCVH, is a significant public-use general aviation facility located approximately 5 kilometers north of downtown Hollister in San Benito County, California. Originally established as a private grass airstrip in 1912, the field was later transformed into a U.S. Navy Air Auxiliary Station during World War II. Today, it serves as a premier destination for recreational and sport aviation, recognized as a regional hub for glider activity and high-altitude skydiving. Its strategic location at the southern end of the Santa Clara Valley makes it a vital asset for both the local community and the Silicon Valley aerospace sector. The airport features a dedicated passenger terminal building that serves as the professional gateway for all ground operations and aviator services. While it does not host scheduled commercial airline traffic, the facility provides a welcoming environment for visiting pilots, including a comfortable waiting area, administrative offices, and a dedicated pilot's lounge managed by the Hollister Jet Center. The layout is designed for maximum efficiency, allowing aircraft to move quickly between the two asphalt runways—the longest extending over 6,300 feet—and the aircraft parking ramps. The facility also serves as a critical base for CAL FIRE's Hollister Air Attack Base, supporting rapid wildfire response across the Central Coast. Facilities at Hollister Municipal are tailored to the needs of the sport aviation and emergency services communities. The airport offers comprehensive services including 100LL and Jet-A fueling, aircraft maintenance, and ample hangar space. It is a world-renowned site for soaring, offering glider rides and lessons, and hosts multiple skydiving centers such as Skydive Hollister and Silicon Valley Skydiving. While the terminal does not host commercial retail or dining, its proximity to the city of Hollister ensures that visitors have easy access to a variety of California restaurants and the famous Hollister hills. Ground transportation is well-supported with rental cars available on-site and local ride-sharing services providing a smooth link to the nearby tech corridor.