Quantcast

Oldest operational airports worldwide: From College Park to Albany

Oldest operational airports worldwide: From College Park to Albany
Policy
Webp 9d8e4n9zvnq6npvse1f7c4oouh5n
Airbus A380 | Airbus

The aviation industry has witnessed significant growth over the last century, leading to the construction of numerous airports globally. Despite this expansion, some airports have been in operation since the early days of aviation. Here is a look at the world's ten oldest airports still functioning today.

Albany International Airport (ALB), which opened in 1928, ranks as the tenth-oldest airport still operational. It underwent several refurbishments and expansions, most recently constructing a dedicated terminal for Southwest Airlines. The airport handles approximately 2.7 million passengers annually, with Baltimore being its busiest destination.

Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) was established in 1920 and initially named Speedway Field. Renamed multiple times, it now serves as a major hub for Delta Air Lines with connections to various long-haul destinations like London Heathrow and Seoul Incheon.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Sydney Airport (SYD), opened in 1920, is the eighth-oldest airport and Australia's busiest, handling around 40 million passengers annually. It serves as a hub for Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia.

Paris-Le Bourget Airport (LBG) opened in 1919 and served as Paris's sole airport until Orly Airport opened in 1932. Today it hosts the Paris Air Show biennially.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), established in 1916 as a military airbase, is now one of the world's busiest airports by international passenger traffic with six runways and a continuous terminal building.

Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA) also opened in 1916 but shifted commercial operations to Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in 1960. It now mainly handles charter flights and low-cost carriers' operations.

Bremen Airport (BRE) started operations in Germany in 1913 and resumed commercial services post-World War I under KLM from Amsterdam Schiphol.

Bucharest Băneasa Aurel Vlaicu International Airport (BBU), founded by George Valentin Bibescu's flight school in Romania in 1912, served domestic flights before being converted into a business-only airport due to inadequate facilities for growing demands.

Hamburg Airport (HAM), dating back to 1911, underwent extensive renovations between 2001-2009. It's connected to more than 125 destinations across Europe along with long-haul services by Emirates and Qatar Airways.

Finally, College Park Airport (CGS) holds the title of the world's oldest continually operated airport since its opening in August 1909 when Wilbur Wright trained US Army officers there. Its historical significance earns it the nickname "cradle of aviation," though security restrictions were imposed after September 11th attacks due to its proximity to Washington D.C.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

London Heathrow, recognized as Europe's busiest airport, will soon experience an increase in its flight offerings by Oman Air.

Sep 2, 2025

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will commence safety and airfield improvement projects on Runway 12R-30L in two distinct phases throughout 2025.

Aug 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines is adjusting its service between Atlanta and Anchorage, extending flights beyond the summer travel season to a year-round offering.

May 15, 2025

In December 2022, Southwest Airlines faced a major crisis as operational challenges led to the cancellation of 16,900 flights, affecting nearly two million passengers during a peak travel period.

Apr 19, 2025

Harrison Ford, an acclaimed actor known for roles such as Han Solo in "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones, is also a noted aviation enthusiast.

Apr 19, 2025

Iberia Airlines has confirmed a notable shift in its flight schedule connecting Madrid and Dallas/Fort Worth, introducing its first overnight service from Europe to the US.

Apr 19, 2025