Olympia, Washington, boasts a rich aviation history intertwined with the state's broader aerospace legacy.
During World War II, the Olympia Airport was a satellite facility for nearby McChord Field (now McChord Air Force Base). It provided training grounds for military pilots and housed temporary units like the 37th Flying Training Squadron.
Earliest Days:
(1920s):
Inspired by the national aviation craze sparked by Charles Lindbergh's transatlantic flight, Olympia embraced the possibilities of air travel. The Olympia Chamber of Commerce was key in acquiring land in 1928 for what would become the Olympia Airport.
Commercial Aviation Takes Root (1920s-1940s): The 1920s saw the arrival of the first commercial airlines operating out of Olympia Airport. These early air carriers, like Capital Airways, offered passenger and cargo services, connecting the state's capital to other major cities.
Post-War Transition (1940s-1960s):
Following the war, civilian aviation continued to develop at Olympia Airport. Several regional airlines operated scheduled flights, catering to business and leisure travelers.
The airport also became a vital resource for state agencies, facilitating aerial firefighting and transportation for government officials.
The Port of Olympia Era (1960s-Present):
In 1963, the City of Olympia transferred control of the airport to the Port of Olympia. This shift aimed to develop the airport's infrastructure further and attract new commercial ventures.
Today, the Olympia Regional Airport remains a crucial hub for the region. It primarily serves as a general aviation airport, accommodating private, corporate, and recreational flights. Air ambulance services, the Washington Department of Natural Resources aerial firefighting operations, and the Olympic Flight Museum all call the airport home
