Any fellow air travel fans? The Wright Brothers flew the very first airplane in 1903 and changed the world as we know it forever. Today, planes play a vital role in society by connecting continents, transporting goods, and providing emergency services. But when thinking about historic places in Michigan – or any other state! – airports don’t often come to mind as being historical sites. The Great Lake State’s oldest airport is in Portage, Michigan, and it is still welcoming passengers to this day.

The Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) is located in southwest Michigan and was formerly known as the Kalamazoo Municipal Airport.
Google Maps
In 1926, the City of Kalamazoo purchased 383 acres in Portage to build Michigan’s first licensed municipal airport. The field was named Lindbergh Field to honor the famous aviator, Charles Lindbergh.
Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport/Facebook
A new terminal was built to replace the former building in 1958. In 1961, an air traffic control tower and additional runways were constructed, which increased the number of flights.
The growing number of passengers brought about a terminal expansion in 1970, which more than doubled the terminal’s footprint from 12,000 to 30,000 square feet.
Oldest Airport Portage Michigan
Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport/Facebook

Related Stories

8 Then And Now Photos In Michigan That Show Just How Much It Has Changed

8 Then And Now Photos In Michigan That Show Just How Much It Has Changed

 What Every Small Town In Michigan Had In The 1930s. It Was A Simpler Time.

What Every Small Town In Michigan Had In The 1930s. It Was A Simpler Time.

 These 9 Candid Photos Show What Life Was Like In Michigan In the 1950s

These 9 Candid Photos Show What Life Was Like In Michigan In the 1950s
By 1989, the terminal was completely renovated with a new concourse, a new baggage claim area, a ramp expansion, and a larger boarding area. The project was a success and passenger traffic expanded from 200,000 per year to more than 500,000 by 1993. Today it still holds a spot on the list of major airports in Michigan.
Dawn B/Google
Michigan’s oldest airport is still in operation, housing three major airlines and welcoming hundreds of passages every day.
Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport/Facebook
While this airport near Battle Creek, Michigan may not be the oldest airport in the U.S. (that title belongs to an airfield in Maryland that dates all the way back to 1908), this humble historical place in Michigan certainly paved the way for the Great Lakes State to become the bustling cultural center it is today!
If you love aviation history, right next to the airport is the Air Zoo which is founded by the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum. You’ll find many rare and historic aircraft and even a delightful amusement park here.
Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum/Google

 

To learn more or to book your next trip, visit the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport website or Facebook page. 

Then, just an hour north of the Kalamazoo airport, pack a picnic and watch planes land at this underrated park. Or, check out even more historic places in Michigan! These charming towns are all packed with nostalgia.

You Can Watch Planes Land At This Underrated Park In Michigan

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Historic Places In Michigan

Jennifer | March 19, 2024

What are some of the oldest places in Michigan?

Whether you're looking to dine at a time-honored restaurant or soak up some natural beauty at one of Michigan's many historic sites, history is everywhere you turn in Michigan! Of course, as with any piece of history, many of Michigan's oldest spots aren't without a smidgeon of controversy - after all, the 1800s were quite a while ago! Here are just a few of the oldest places in Michigan:

  • Oldest Restaurant in Michigan: The Gandy Dancer in Ann Arbor holds the title of one of the oldest restaurants in Michigan, with a history dating back to the 1800s. Housed in a beautifully restored train depot, it offers upscale dining with a touch of nostalgia. However, there are a few other historic restaurants around the state that lay claim to this title as well!
  • Oldest Church in Michigan: Ste. Anne de Détroit Catholic Church in Detroit is the oldest church in Michigan, founded in 1701. Its historic significance and stunning architecture make it a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
  • Oldest Hotel in Michigan: The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is one of the oldest hotels in Michigan, opening its doors in 1887. With its iconic white façade, sweeping verandas, and timeless elegance, it's a beloved landmark and a symbol of Victorian grandeur.
  • Oldest Lighthouse in Michigan: The Fort Gratiot Lighthouse in Port Huron is Michigan's oldest lighthouse, dating back to 1829. Perched on the shores of Lake Huron, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into Michigan's maritime history.
  • Oldest University in Michigan: The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is one of the oldest universities in Michigan, founded in 1817. Renowned for its academic excellence and rich tradition, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the state's educational landscape.
  • Oldest Park in Michigan: Belle Isle Park in Detroit is one of the oldest parks in Michigan, established in 1845. Spanning 982 acres, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush green spaces, scenic trails, and recreational amenities.

 

Related Articles

Explore Michigan

Featured Addresses
5235 Portage Rd, Portage, MI 49002, USA