RONALD REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT: A GATEWAY TO THE CAPITAL
For 85 years, Reagan National has served as the main gateway to the nation’ s capital, connecting millions of travelers to Washington, D. C., and destinations worldwide. Since opening on June 16, 1941, Reagan National has grown into one of the country’ s most iconic and accessible airports, renowned for its stunning views of Washington’ s monuments, excellent customer service, and key role in the region’ s transportation network.
President Franklin Roosevelt Laying Cornerstone for New Airport
Credit: Bettmann
President Franklin D. Roosevelt selected Gravelly Point in Alexandria, Virginia, as the site of the airport. Roosevelt himself would later become the first sitting U. S. president to travel by airplane.
Terry Liercke, vice president and airport manager at Reagan National, explained that the airport, previously known as Washington National before 1998, has undergone significant changes over the last 85 years to enhance the passenger experience and modernize this historic facility for the future. While preserving its art deco style, with features like sweeping domes, chrome accents, and floor-toceiling windows, the airport has been expanded and upgraded.
In 1997, Reagan National connected to Metrorail, offering a convenient and affordable way for travelers to access the airport. Recently, security checkpoints were relocated and combined to make it easier to navigate between gates and terminals. Additionally, in 2021, the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority opened the E gates to modernize the airport and expand the number of gates.
One of the more exciting recent additions is a stunning 14,000-square-foot American Airlines Admirals Club featuring showers, food and beverage options, and conference facilities.
The airport is also committed to featuring local brands to give visitors a taste of D. C. while making locals feel at home. Passengers can enjoy half-smokes from the iconic Ben’ s Chili Bowl, warm empanadas at Colada Shop, burgers at Lucky Buns, or a cheesy slice at Timber Pizza Company. Solid State, a locally owned bookstore with an airport outlet, offers a variety of plane and beach reads. DC Originals sells dozens of unique products created by D. C.-area artisans.
As the airport celebrates its 85th anniversary, it honors a legacy of innovation, service, and connection while looking toward the future. The milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on Reagan National’ s rich history and its enduring role as a gateway to the nation’ s capital.
THE CREATION OF WASHINGTON DULLES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
As international travel expanded after World War II, officials recognized the need for a larger airport capable of supporting long-distance jet aviation. That vision led to the development of Washington Dulles International Airport.
“ Back in the day, there was a lot of interest in international aviation, and to accommodate that, larger airfields were needed,” said Richard Golinowski, vice president and airport manager at Dulles International.
Opened in 1962 and named after former Secretary of State John Foster Dulles, the airport was designed by renowned Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen. Saarinen envisioned Dulles as a grand gateway to the nation’ s capital, featuring soaring ceilings, open spaces, and sweeping architectural curves that evoke the sensation of flight.
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