Aviation View | April 2021

94 AVIATION VIEW APRIL 2021 Engine 18 fire station and was just a grass strip airport. In 1942, the United States Army Air Corps took over and paved three runways so they could accommodate the wind no matter what direction. The airport was used as a training base and there were barracks in service right up to the 1990s. At the end of WWII, the airfield was turned over to the City of Philadelphia that continues to own and operate it along with Philadelphia International. A slow down in the 1970s which worsened into the ‘80s, saw commercial traffic dry up, the fire station close, and the airport fought to re-invent itself. What saved it was the fact that the airport was run by the city and had access to the resources of Philadelphia International, becoming what is today the busiest General Aviation airport in the State of Pennsylvania.” Flight schools at the airport have played a significant role in its growth. The Legacy Flight School is the longest standing and offers certificates from the private pilot up to commercial, multi-engine, and flight instructor