Bessemer (EKY)

Bessemer Airport, also known as KEKY, EKY, or Bessemer Municipal Airport, is a public airport located six miles southwest of downtown Bessemer, Alabama. The airport was established in 1945 by the City of Bessemer to serve as a general aviation airport for the region.

The airport covers an area of 625 acres and has one runway designated 18/36 with a length of 5,000 feet. The airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides a range of services to both private and commercial aircraft. The airport offers fuel services, aircraft parking, and hangar rentals for both short and long-term use.

Bessemer Airport is also equipped with modern facilities, including a terminal building with comfortable seating, a pilot lounge, and restrooms. The airport has a variety of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, vending machines for snacks and drinks, and a courtesy car for transportation to local attractions.

One of the unique features of Bessemer Airport is its rich history. The airport played an essential role during World War II as a training site for U.S. Army Air Corps pilots. The airport also served as a flight training center for the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. The Tuskegee Airmen played a crucial role in the integration of the American military and paved the way for future generations of African American pilots.

In conclusion, Bessemer Airport is a historic and modern airport that provides a range of services to both private and commercial aircraft. The airport offers modern facilities and amenities, including a terminal building, free Wi-Fi, and a courtesy car for transportation to local attractions. The airport's rich history and unique features make it an exciting destination for aviation enthusiasts and historians alike.