Airports

Uncovering the History and Economic Impact of Harrisburg Capital City Airport (HAR)





Harrisburg Capital City Airport (HAR) is located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and is the main airport serving the Harrisburg metropolitan area. The airport was originally called Harrisburg International Airport, but its name was changed in 2009 to reflect its status as the capital city airport for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The airport was built in 1925 by the Harrisburg Air Terminal Corporation, under the direction of Mayor Robert L. Hershey. The first flight to take off from the airport was a Curtiss Robin, piloted by William F. McHenry, with a three-man crew. The airport quickly grew in popularity and by the end of the decade, it had become the busiest airport in the United States.

During the 1950s, the airport was expanded and upgraded to accommodate larger aircraft. In 1964, the airport was renamed Harrisburg Capital City Airport in recognition of the city’s status as the capital of Pennsylvania. By the late 1960s, the airport had become one of the busiest airports in the country, with over 500 flights a day.

The airport code, HAR, is derived from the first two letters of the airport’s name. It is a common practice for airports to use their three-letter codes to identify themselves.





Today, the airport has an average of almost 100 daily departures, to destinations both domestically and internationally. The airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and Allegiant Air. The airport also offers charter flights, cargo operations, and general aviation services.

The airport is a major hub for the surrounding region, providing jobs and economic growth to the area. It is also home to several aviation-related businesses, such as repair services, aircraft maintenance, and flight training.

Harrisburg Capital City Airport is a vital part of the local economy and culture. It is a crucial gateway to the city and the region, helping to connect people and businesses to the world.