The story behind Midway Airport’s name
Midway Airport, located on the Southwest Side of Chicago, is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It serves millions of passengers each year and plays a vital role in the city’s transportation network. But have you ever wondered how Midway Airport got its name?
The airport’s name has a fascinating history that dates back to World War II. It is named after the Battle of Midway, one of the most significant naval battles in history, which took place in June 1942. In this battle, the United States defeated the Japanese navy and turned the tide of the war in the Pacific. The name Midway Airport is a tribute to the brave men and women who fought in that battle and to the importance of air power in modern warfare.
The birth of Chicago’s second airport
In the 1920s and 1930s, Chicago’s only airport was located on the city’s North Side, near the lakefront. This airport, known as Chicago Municipal Airport, was becoming increasingly crowded as air travel became more popular. In 1927, the city began looking for a location for a second airport to handle the growing demand for air travel.
The search for a suitable location
The search for a suitable location took several years, and many sites were considered. The city eventually settled on a 320-acre site on the Southwest Side, near the intersection of 55th Street and Cicero Avenue. The site was ideal because it was close to the city’s industrial and commercial areas and had excellent access to the city’s highways.
Choosing a name for the new airport
When the new airport was being planned, the city had to decide on a name. Several suggestions were made, but none seemed to be suitable. Then, in 1942, the United States won the Battle of Midway, and the city decided to name the new airport after this historic battle.
Honoring the Battle of Midway
The decision to name the airport after the Battle of Midway was a way of honoring the men and women who fought in the battle and recognizing the importance of air power in modern warfare. It was also a way of showing support for the war effort and demonstrating the city’s commitment to the country.
The impact of World War II on aviation
World War II had a significant impact on aviation in the United States. The war created a huge demand for planes, pilots, and airports. The government invested heavily in aviation infrastructure to support the war effort, and this investment had a lasting impact on the aviation industry. Many airports, including Midway, were built during this time and became critical hubs for both military and commercial aviation.
Midway Airport: A hub for commercial flights
After the war, Midway Airport became a hub for commercial flights. It was one of the busiest airports in the country and played a vital role in the growth of the aviation industry. Over the years, the airport underwent several changes and renovations to keep up with the demand for air travel.
Changes and renovations over the years
Over the years, Midway Airport underwent many changes and renovations to keep up with the demands of the aviation industry. In the 1950s and 1960s, the airport was expanded to handle larger planes and more passengers. In the 1990s and 2000s, the airport underwent a major renovation that included the construction of a new terminal and parking garage.
Midway Airport today: A vital transportation hub
Today, Midway Airport remains a vital transportation hub for the city of Chicago and the surrounding region. It serves millions of passengers each year and provides connections to destinations around the world. It has also become an important economic engine for the city, generating billions of dollars in economic activity and supporting thousands of jobs.
Conclusion: Why the name Midway Airport endures
The name Midway Airport endures because it is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who fought in the Battle of Midway. It is also a testament to the importance of air power in modern warfare and the role that aviation plays in our lives today. As one of the busiest airports in the United States, Midway Airport will continue to play a critical role in the nation’s transportation network and honor the legacy of the Battle of Midway for generations to come.
