John F. Kennedy International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers each year. However, many people do not know the original name of this airport. In this article, we will explore the history of JFK Airport, including its development, the need for a new name, and the controversy surrounding its current name.
The history of JFK Airport
JFK Airport was originally known as Idlewild Airport. It was built in 1942 as a small airfield for the military during World War II. After the war, it was converted into a commercial airport and served as the primary airport for New York City until the 1950s. At that time, it became clear that the airport was too small to handle the increasing number of passengers and the larger planes that were being developed.
Development of JFK Airport
To address these issues, a major expansion project was undertaken in the late 1950s. The airport was renamed John F. Kennedy International Airport in honor of the recently bad guyated president, who had been a strong advocate for the expansion of the airport. The new airport was designed to handle the larger planes that were becoming available, and it included a new terminal building, runways, and other facilities.
The need for a new name
The decision to rename the airport was not without controversy. Some argued that it was inappropriate to name an airport after a politician, while others pointed out that Kennedy had only been in office for a short time and had not been directly involved in the airport’s development. However, the majority of people supported the renaming, and it was officially changed in 1963.
The renaming of JFK Airport
The renaming of the airport was a significant event in the history of New York City. It was seen as a tribute to Kennedy’s legacy and a way to honor his commitment to public service. The airport quickly became one of the busiest in the world, and it continues to be a major transportation hub for the city and the country as a whole.
John F. Kennedy’s legacy
John F. Kennedy was a popular and influential president who is remembered for his vision, his leadership, and his commitment to public service. The renaming of the airport was a way to honor his legacy and to recognize his role in the development of the aviation industry in the United States.
Controversy surrounding the name
Despite the widespread support for the renaming of the airport, there has been controversy over the years about whether it is appropriate to name an airport after a politician. Some argue that it is disrespectful to other public figures who have contributed to the aviation industry, while others believe that it is a fitting tribute to Kennedy’s legacy.
Attempts to change the name
There have been several attempts over the years to change the name of JFK Airport. Some have proposed renaming it after other public figures, while others have suggested using a non-political name. However, these efforts have been largely unsuccessful, and the airport continues to be known as John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Current status of the name
Despite the controversy and the attempts to change the name, John F. Kennedy International Airport remains one of the most recognizable and iconic airports in the world. It is a symbol of the city’s history and its commitment to innovation and progress.
Other airport name changes
The renaming of JFK Airport is not an isolated event. Many other airports around the world have been renamed over the years to honor public figures, to reflect changing political realities, or to recognize the contributions of local communities.
Conclusion
The renaming of JFK Airport was a significant event in the history of New York City and the aviation industry as a whole. While there has been controversy over the years about whether it is appropriate to name an airport after a politician, the airport continues to be a major transportation hub and a symbol of the city’s commitment to progress and innovation.
References
- John F. Kennedy International Airport. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved February 1, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_F._Kennedy_International_Airport
- Johnson, T. (2017, November 22). The history of JFK Airport. National Geographic. Retrieved February 1, 2021, from
- Rosenbaum, E. (2013, November 20). JFK: The airport that changed the world. BBC News. Retrieved February 1, 2021, from
