The United States is home to some of the world’s oldest airports, many of which have been in operation since the early days of aviation. These airports serve as living museums, showcasing a rich history marked by significant milestones in flight and community engagement. The following list highlights the ten oldest continuously operating airports in the U.S., detailing their origins, historical significance, and current operations.
10. Albert Whitted Airport – Opened in 1929
Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, Albert Whitted Airport opened its doors in the summer of 1929. The airport is named after local naval aviator Lt. James Albert Whitted and was constructed on reclaimed waterfront land. The area played a pivotal role in aviation history, having hosted the world’s first scheduled airline flight in 1914. Over the years, the airport has seen various uses, from blimps to early airline services and general aviation. Despite facing closure proposals, local preservation efforts ensured its survival, leading to investments in upgrades during the 2000s. Today, it serves flight training, sightseeing, and charter services, while also being a cultural landmark.
9. Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport – Opened in 1927
Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport, established in 1927, began as a general-use field and played a key role in airmail routes. The airport even welcomed famed aviator Charles Lindbergh during his nationwide tour. Its early years included training and private aviation, alongside memorials honoring local pilots and veterans. Currently, it functions primarily as a general aviation facility, supporting business aviation and community events, thanks to ongoing local stewardship.
8. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport – Opened in 1925
Opened in 1925, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport was one of the first municipally owned airports in the U.S. Throughout the mid-20th century, it pioneered innovations such as the first radio-equipped control tower and airfield lighting systems. The airport became a major airline gateway, hosting significant air services and events. Today, Hopkins continues to modernize its infrastructure while maintaining its status as a primary commercial airport in the region.
7. Logan International Airport – Opened in 1923
Originally known as Jeffery Field, Logan International Airport in Boston opened in 1923. It began with military training and airmail flights before evolving into New England’s primary international gateway after World War II. The airport has undergone extensive land reclamation and modernization, including recent terminal upgrades. Logan remains a high-traffic hub with multiple carriers and a busy international schedule, balancing growth with environmental considerations.
6. Midway International Airport – Opened in 1923
Established as Chicago Municipal Airport in 1923, Midway International Airport briefly held the title of the “world’s busiest airport” in the late 1940s. Renamed in honor of the WWII Battle of Midway, it played a crucial role in early airline networks and night operations. Although overshadowed by O’Hare International Airport, Midway remains an important airport, focusing on domestic short-haul flights while preserving its historical significance.
5. Long Beach Airport – Opened in 1923
Long Beach Airport has roots tracing back to 1911 when Calbraith “Cal” Rodgers completed the first transcontinental flight. Established formally in 1923, the airport became a significant site for flight training and aircraft manufacturing. Today, it serves as a municipal airport with general aviation, commercial flights, and flight training, all while preserving its historical architecture and aviation legacy.
4. Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport – Built in 1920
Initially known as Speedway Field, Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport began operations in 1920 on the site of a former race track. The airport transitioned from airmail services to becoming a major airline hub, particularly for Northwest Airlines and now Delta Air Lines. MSP has expanded significantly to accommodate international flights and cargo operations, focusing on enhancing passenger experience and ongoing infrastructure investment.
3. Stinson Municipal Airport – Opened in 1915
Founded in 1915 by the Stinson siblings, Stinson Municipal Airport is recognized as the second-oldest continuously operating airport in the U.S. and the oldest west of the Mississippi River. The airport has served various purposes, including military training and barnstorming exhibitions. Today, it remains a busy general aviation airport in San Antonio, Texas, supporting flight schools and community events, while being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Pearson Field – First flights recorded in 1911
Located in Vancouver, Washington, Pearson Field has a history dating back to 1905 and was officially recognized for its first fixed-wing flights in 1911. The site has supported military aviation and international flights, including the notable arrival of Soviet aviator Valery Chkalov in 1937. Today, Pearson Field operates as a general aviation airport, preserving its legacy through the Pearson Air Museum and community engagement.
1. College Park Airport – Established in 1909
Often cited as the oldest continuously operating airport in the world, College Park Airport was established in 1909 when the U.S. Army Signal Corps invited Wilbur Wright to train military pilots. The airport has a rich history, including early airmail operations and significant aviation experiments. Today, it supports general aviation and serves as a living museum, hosting various aviation-education programs and heritage flights.
These ten airports encapsulate the evolution of aviation in the United States, each contributing uniquely to the nation’s transportation legacy. From bustling international hubs to intimate general aviation fields, they reflect the resilience and adaptability of the aviation industry through changing times.