Boeing Field Intl airport (BFI)
Located in the heart of Seattle, Washington, Boeing Field International Airport (IATA: BFI / ICAO: KBFI) serves as a crucial hub for both general and commercial aviation. Established in 1928 and named after the aviation pioneer William E. Boeing, the airport has a rich historical legacy intertwined with Seattle's evolution as a major center for aerospace and aviation. Initially designed as a municipal facility, Boeing Field has grown in prominence and versatility over the decades.
This airport plays a unique role in the aviation ecosystem, balancing both domestic and international functions. Although it does not cater to scheduled commercial airline services like its larger counterpart, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Boeing Field is a bustling center for cargo flights, private aviation, and aircraft maintenance, including significant operations for the Boeing Company and other aerospace entities.
Strategically situated approximately 5 miles south of downtown Seattle, the airport spans some 634 acres. It boasts impressive infrastructure including two parallel runways and multiple fixed-base operators (FBOs) that facilitate a wide range of services from fueling to hangar space and flight training.
Statistically notable, Boeing Field handles around 200,000 aircraft operations annually, translating to an average of 550 movements per day. While passenger traffic is minimal compared to larger commercial hubs, the airport supports a diverse array of flights, encompassing everything from business jets to air cargo, and occasional military operations. The seamless blend of historical significance and modern functionality makes Boeing Field a pivotal component of Seattle's dynamic aviation landscape.