About The Oldest Airport In America
The world's oldest continuously operated airport
An airport is defined as a facility where aircraft take off and land, equipped with runways, taxiways, terminals, and other infrastructure to support the arrival, departure, and servicing of airplanes.
The oldest airport in America is College Park Airport, located in College Park, Maryland. In fact, it is noted as the world's oldest continuously operated airport in Guinness World Records. College Park Airport is also defined as the world's oldest continually operating airport by the U.S. National Park Service. The Maryland Department Of Transportation recognizes it as the oldest operating airport in the United States.
College Park Airport, established in 1909 by the Wright Brothers, was the site of many important aviation milestones, including the first military aviation training, the first postal air delivery, and the first controlled helicopter flight.
Known as the "Field of Firsts", it is the site of many significant aviation firsts. College Park Airport is currently a public-use airport. Originally used for military aviation training, the airport became a hub for pioneering aviators who used it as a base for experimentation and innovation in aviation technology.
The Airport is owned by The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). M-NCPPC purchased the airport in 1973 as one of the gateway airports to Washington, D.C., and Prince George’s County.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for College Park Airport is CGS. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for College Park Airport is KCGS.
In order to keep this historic airport operational, the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County must abide by certain laws, regulations, and Federal Aviation Administration safety requirements.
Maryland Regulation 11.03.05.03 requires that every 4-8 years, trees in designated areas near the College Park Airport must be trimmed. Trees above a certain height are considered airport hazards.
Today, College Park Airport is primarily used for general aviation and flight training. It features a 2,600-foot runway and supports a variety of aircraft, including single and multi-engine planes, helicopters, and gliders.
The airport is also home to a museum that showcases the history of aviation at College Park, including artifacts, photographs, and exhibits on the pioneering aviators who flew from the airport. In its present day status.
College Park Airport serves as a convenient modern day facility, meeting the everyday needs of general aviation pilots in the DC-metropolitan area. Conveniently located within walking distance to the Metro Rail system, CGS continues to be a prime option for general aviation pilots visiting Washington, DC.
Despite its historical significance, College Park Airport remains an active general aviation airport today. It is home to several aviation-related businesses, flight schools, and aircraft maintenance facilities.
College Park Airport serves as a base for private pilots, flight training operations, and recreational flying activities. It is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Its historical significance is commemorated through exhibits, interpretive displays, and educational programs at the College Park Aviation Museum, located adjacent to the airport.
Overall, College Park Airport holds a special place in aviation history as the world's oldest continuously operating airport and continues to serve as a vibrant hub for aviation activities and education.