San Bernardino International Airport Celebrates Beloved Fly Dog “Norton” on His Fourth Birthday
San Bernardino, CA – San Bernardino International Airport (SBD) recently welcomed travelers and media for a pawsitively perfect celebration honoring Norton, the airport’s hardworking and much-loved wildlife prevention border collie, on his fourth birthday.
The special event gave passengers and guests the chance to meet one of the airport’s most unique team members while learning about the important role Norton plays in keeping the airfield safe. Ticketed passengers traveling through SBD joined in the festivities and quickly fell in love with the birthday pup during the celebration at the passenger terminal.
Festivities included:
- A meet-and-greet with Norton
- Photo opportunities with the birthday guest of honor
- Special treats for attendees
- Opportunities to learn more about Norton’s important safety role at SBD
Behind the celebration is an essential mission. San Bernardino International Airport maintains a comprehensive Wildlife Prevention Program designed to reduce the risk of wildlife strikes and keep the airfield safe. The program includes daily pawtrols, habitat management, and Norton, a specially trained border collie who helps deter birds and wildlife from the airfield environment.
Border collies are widely recognized in wildlife management for their natural herding instincts. Their presence mimics that of a predator, encouraging birds and other animals to safely leave the area without harm. Working under the direction of Airport Operations personnel and in coordination with USDA Wildlife Services, Norton helps move wildlife away from the airfield and discourages animals from returning.
This proactive approach supports FAA safety standards and helps protect the airfield. By combining trained personnel, strategic habitat management, and humane wildlife deterrence, SBD continues to prioritize safety while respecting local wildlife.
“Norton is more than a working dog—he is part of the SBD family,” said Mark Gibbs, Director of Aviation at San Bernardino International Airport. “We were thrilled to celebrate this milestone with our travelers and share one of the airport’s most unique and beloved team members.”
Norton’s birthday celebration served as both a fun community moment and a reminder that innovation, teamwork, and a little canine charm all play a role in airport safety.
Follow along Norton’s patrol at @sbdflydog on Instagram, Facebook and X.
About San Bernardino International Airport
San Bernardino International Airport began scheduled passenger service with Breeze Airways in August 2022. Nonstop flights to San Francisco and Provo, Utah, are currently available. The airport also offers a full range of aviation services including air cargo, business aviation, general aviation, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations.
The domestic passenger terminal is located at 105 N. Leland Norton Way in San Bernardino, CA, with convenient access from the I-10 and I-210 freeways. On-airport parking is always just $5.00 per day. The airport is located approximately 60 miles east of Los Angeles and within 30 minutes of more than two million people.
For more information, visit FlySBD.com