Exploring the US Oldest Regional Airports: A Journey Through Aviation History and Modern Day Travel

Published on December 22, 2025

In the world of aviation, some airports have stood the test of time, evolving from humble beginnings to vital travel hubs. These historic airports are not just significant for their age but also for the role they played in shaping U.S. aviation and providing travelers with a glimpse of the country’s rich aviation heritage. From the early days of aviation to the modern air travel landscape, these airports represent a bridge between the past and the present.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the oldest regional airports in the U.S., still in operation today. These airports have played pivotal roles in the development of aviation in the U.S. and have adapted to the evolving needs of modern travelers. While they may not be the busiest hubs in the country, their historical significance and ongoing operations make them important landmarks for any aviation enthusiast or travel lover.

College Park Airport: The Oldest Airport in the U.S.

Tucked away in College Park, Maryland, College Park Airport (CGS) holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest continuously operating airport, with a rich history dating back to 1909. It is not just a travel hub; it’s also a museum that showcases the early days of aviation. College Park Airport is known as the “Field of Firsts,” and for good reason. It was here that Wilbur Wright trained the U.S. Army’s first two military aviators in 1909, establishing the first military flight school.

The airport’s small size contrasts with its huge historical significance, and it still serves private aviation today. Visitors can explore historic hangars, see antique aircraft on display, and learn about the early aviation pioneers who helped shape the skies. With a museum dedicated to aviation history and hands-on exhibits, College Park is a must-see for anyone interested in the roots of flight.

Teterboro Airport: New York’s Luxury Aviation Hub

Located in Bergen County, New Jersey, just 12 miles from Midtown Manhattan, Teterboro Airport (TEB) is one of the most prominent general aviation airports in the U.S. Opened in 1917, Teterboro has served as a hub for private aviation and business jet traffic for decades. With a history that dates back to World War I, the airport has long been a center for aviation innovation, hosting famous aircraft designers like Anthony Fokker.

Today, Teterboro is an essential hub for executive jets and private air travel, with some of the world’s wealthiest individuals using the airport for quick access to Manhattan and other nearby cities. Its proximity to New York City and its exclusive clientele make it a key player in luxury travel. Teterboro may not handle commercial airlines, but its luxury aviation services make it a vital part of the New York metropolitan area’s air travel infrastructure.

Dallas Love Field: Southwest Airlines’ Home Base

Dallas Love Field (DAL), opened in 1917, has become an iconic part of the Dallas-Fort Worth aviation landscape. Originally a military base, Love Field transitioned to civilian use after World War I and became a commercial hub by the 1960s. Its major significance in U.S. aviation came in the 1970s with the establishment of Southwest Airlines, which revolutionized air travel with its low-cost, no-frills approach.

Today, Dallas Love Field remains a key hub for Southwest Airlines and serves as one of the most important airports in the U.S. for domestic flights. Despite the opening of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Love Field remains a vital part of the Dallas area’s air travel network, with Southwest Airlines operating the majority of flights from the airport. Its rich history and continued importance in the aviation industry make Dallas Love Field one of the oldest airports still in use today.

Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport: A Historic Hub for South Carolina

Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport (SPA) in South Carolina has a special place in aviation history. Established in 1927, it was one of the first commercial airports in the state and was visited by famous aviators like Charles Lindbergh. In fact, Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis made a stop here during its historic transatlantic flight.

Though it no longer handles commercial flights, Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport remains an active general aviation airport and is a symbol of the early days of aviation in the U.S. The airport’s historic significance is still preserved, and it’s a great spot for aviation enthusiasts to explore the early milestones of American aviation.

Asheville Regional Airport: From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Gateway

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in North Carolina dates back to 1928, with the first airplanes taking off from unpaved runways. Over the years, the airport has grown into a regional gateway, serving both domestic and international passengers. The airport has played an essential role in connecting Asheville with other parts of the U.S., especially during the post-WWII era when the area saw a surge in tourism.

Asheville Regional has continued to grow and expand, and the airport has become increasingly important for travelers flying to visit the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and the town’s historic architecture. The airport’s proximity to Asheville’s unique cultural scene and natural beauty has made it a critical hub for tourism and local business.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Aviation in the U.S.

From the Field of Firsts at College Park Airport to the luxury hub that is Teterboro, the oldest regional airports in the U.S. represent an enduring legacy in aviation history. These airports not only serve as critical components of the U.S. aviation network but also hold rich historical significance in the development of commercial aviation. As air travel continues to evolve, these historical airports remain vital parts of the nation’s aviation infrastructure. Whether they are still handling commercial flights or serving as key general aviation hubs, they represent the roots of aviation in the United States.

For aviation enthusiasts and travel lovers, visiting these historic airports offers a unique glimpse into the early days of flight. They are reminders of how far the aviation industry has come and how these historic hubs have helped shape the modern air travel landscape. Whether you’re flying into Dallas Love Field for a Southwest Airlines flight or visiting Teterboro Airport for a luxury jet experience, these airports continue to leave their mark on the skies.