Carson City Airport: A 1960 View

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Nevada Appeal's 'Past Pages' column, a long-running tradition since 1947, recently featured a look back at the Carson City Airport as it appeared in 1960. The column, which chronicles historic events in Carson City dating back 160 years, included a photograph showcasing the airport's state during that time. The airport's origins trace back to 1928 and have since undergone significant expansions, including a major donation of land in 1958 that formed the foundation of the main runway. The 'Past Pages' feature also recounted other historical events from Carson City's past, ranging from 19th-century fire insurance rates to a narrow escape during a snowslide in 1876.

Why it matters

The 'Past Pages' column provides a unique window into Carson City's rich history, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse into the events and individuals that have shaped the community over the decades. By highlighting the evolution of the Carson City Airport, the column helps preserve the city's transportation history and the role the airport has played in its development.

The details

The Carson City Airport's origins trace back to 1928, when it initially encompassed just 1.02 acres of land. A significant expansion occurred in January 1958 when the John D. Winters family donated approximately 240 acres to the city for airport use, forming the foundation of the main runway. In the 1960s, the airport saw increased activity, with the Carson City Sheriff's Aero Squadron paving and improving a portion of the ramp on the south side of the runway, operating from that location for over 40 years. The airport also served as a base for firefighting operations, utilizing former military aircraft contracted by the U.S. Forest Service and the Nevada Division of Forestry.

• The Carson City Airport was established in 1928.
• In January 1958, the John D. Winters family donated approximately 240 acres to the city for airport use.
• In the 1960s, the Carson City Sheriff's Aero Squadron paved and improved a portion of the ramp on the south side of the runway, operating from that location for over 40 years.

What’s next

The Carson City Airport continues to evolve, now over twice its original size and remains a vital part of the city's infrastructure. The airport is self-sustaining, retaining one-third of the tax revenue generated from fuel flowage fees, personal property tax from aircraft, and property taxes from hangars.