Celebrating 100 Years: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Introduction

The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. This airport has played a crucial role in connecting people and businesses, and has become an iconic symbol of Atlanta.

A Brief History

• The airport was originally named Candler Field, after its former owner Asa Candler, the founder of Coca-Cola.
• In 1942, the airport was renamed Atlanta Municipal Airport and became the first airport in the country to have a paved runway.
• In 1971, the airport was renamed Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport in honor of former Atlanta mayor William B. Hartsfield.
• In 2003, the airport was renamed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to honor former Atlanta mayor Maynard Jackson.

Key Achievements

• The airport has been named the world’s busiest airport for 22 consecutive years, with over 110 million passengers in 2019.
• It has also been recognized for its sustainability efforts, including being the first airport in the world to achieve LEED Platinum certification.
• The airport has a significant economic impact, generating over $34 billion in revenue and supporting over 300,000 jobs.

Future Plans

• The airport is undergoing a $6 billion expansion project, which includes a new terminal and runway, to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
• There are also plans to enhance the airport’s technology and customer experience, including the implementation of biometric facial recognition technology.

Conclusion

As the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport celebrates its 100th anniversary, it continues to be a vital hub for travel and a symbol of Atlanta’s growth and success. With its rich history and ambitious plans for the future, this airport will continue to play a crucial role in connecting people and businesses for years to come.