Airports

Uncovering the History of Boeing Field/King County International Airport in Seattle, Washington, USA





Boeing Field/King County International Airport, located in Seattle, Washington, USA, has a long and interesting history that is closely intertwined with the city’s aviation industry. In 1928, Boeing Air Transport (BAT) began operating out of the site, which was then known as Boeing Field. The area was initially used to store and repair planes for the airline, and soon the facility began offering passenger flights. In 1930, BAT merged with United Airlines, and the airport was then known as United Airport.

In 1941, during World War II, the U.S. Army took over the airport and renamed it King County Airport. The military used the facility to train pilots and to repair and maintain military aircraft. At the end of the war, the airport returned to civilian control and was renamed King County International Airport.

In 1949, the city of Seattle purchased the airport and held a contest to rename it. The winning entry was "Boeing Field" in honor of the company that originally owned the land. This name has been used ever since.

The airport code BFI was assigned by the International Air Transport Association in 1950. The code is derived from the words "Boeing Field International", which was the airport’s original name.





Today, Boeing Field/King County International Airport serves as a general aviation facility and is a major hub for corporate and private aircraft. The airport handles over 300 takeoffs and landings every day, with most of the flights operated by local charter companies. Major airlines that serve the airport include Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

In recent years, Boeing Field/King County International Airport has become an important part of the Seattle area’s transportation network. The airport is used for cargo operations, flight training, and medical evacuation flights, in addition to general aviation. It is also home to the Museum of Flight, which is a popular tourist attraction.

Overall, Boeing Field/King County International Airport has a rich history and continues to play an important role in the Seattle area’s aviation industry.