While the term "first airport" can sometimes refer to the earliest airfields, based on the provided reference, the College Park Airport (KCGS) is recognized as the world's oldest airport that remains in continuous operation.
College Park Airport: The Oldest in Operation
Located in College Park, Maryland, US, the College Park Airport holds a significant place in aviation history. Its establishment dates back to 1909, a pivotal year for the burgeoning field of aviation. The airport's enduring legacy stems from its foundational role in early flight education and military aviation.
Key Facts about College Park Airport:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | College Park Airport (KCGS) |
| Location | College Park, Maryland, US |
| Established | 1909 |
| Significance | World's oldest airport in continuous operation. |
| Historical Role | Site where Wilbur Wright trained the first two US Army military officers in aviation. |
Historical Significance and Beginnings
The College Park Airport's distinction as the "world's oldest airport in operation" is rooted in its establishment in 1909. This was a critical period when aviation was rapidly evolving from a novel experiment into a practical means of transportation and military application.
- Wilbur Wright's Arrival: The airport's history is notably marked by the arrival of Wilbur Wright himself. In 1909, he came to College Park to conduct crucial training.
- Military Training: Wright's primary mission at the site was to train the first two military officers for the US Army in the principles and practice of aviation. This marked the very beginning of military aviation training in the United States.
- Continuous Operation: Unlike many early airfields that have since closed or been repurposed, College Park Airport has maintained its operational status since its inception, solidifying its claim as the oldest continuously active airport worldwide.
The longevity and historical importance of College Park Airport make it a landmark in global aviation, demonstrating the early commitment to flight and its development into a vital industry.
