The Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) has a long and storied history, dating back to the late 1940s. It was originally known as the Bloomington Municipal Airport and was founded in 1946 by local businessman and aviation enthusiast Charles G. Shafer. The airport was founded with the intent of providing a safe and efficient way for the citizens of the Bloomington area to travel. The airport was initially supported by the city of Bloomington, with a $50,000 bond issue. The airport was primarily used for general aviation and served as a hub for flights to and from other cities in the Midwest.

The airport was renamed Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport in 1983, in honor of the region’s central location. The airport code BMI was assigned by the International Air Transport Association and is an acronym for the airport’s city and state: Bloomington, Illinois.

Today, the airport sees approximately 100 take-offs and landings daily and is served by several airlines, including Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, as well as various charter services. The airport also offers a full-service fixed base operator, allowing for a wide variety of general aviation services.

The airport serves a variety of destinations, such as Chicago, Dallas, and Denver. The airport also serves a number of smaller cities in and around the state of Illinois, including Bloomington, Champaign, Peoria, and Springfield. Additionally, the airport is a hub for cargo operations, with several freight and transport companies operating out of the airport.

The Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport is an important part of the local community and economy. The airport provides employment for hundreds of people, as well as bringing thousands of travelers and business people to the area. The airport is also home to several aviation-related businesses, such as aircraft maintenance and repair facilities, flight schools, and aviation-related retail stores.

The Bloomington Central Illinois Regional Airport is an important part of the local transportation infrastructure and is an integral part of the region’s economy. The airport continues to serve its purpose today, providing a safe and efficient way for the citizens of the region to travel.