How a wartime training base became a major Texas aviation hub

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded in 1941 as a municipal project, San Antonio International Airport evolved from a military training ground into a critical regional gateway. From serving as a WWII reconnaissance base to hosting the rise of Southwest Airlines, the airport's infrastructure reflects decades of shifting aviation demands and urban growth.

In 1941, the City of San Antonio bought 1,200 acres of raw land north of the city limits to create the San Antonio Municipal Airport. The facility's development was interrupted by the requirements of World War II, during which a significant portion of the northeast section, known as Alamo Field, was utilized by the United States Army Air Forces. This training base hosted the 77th Reconnaissance Group, which trained personnel on various aircraft, including the P-39 and B-25, for overseas service. One specific squadron, the 113th, conducted antisubmarine patrols over the Gulf of Mexico.

As the military's need for Alamo Field subsided after the war, the land was returned to the city for civilian use. The airport underwent several transformative phases, including the construction of Terminal 2 between 1951 and 1953. A pivotal moment in its commercial history occurred in June 1971, when San Antonio became one of three original destinations—alongside Dallas and Houston—for the startup airline Southwest Airlines. The facility has since expanded significantly, growing from just eight gates to its current capacity of 27 jet bridge gates across two terminals.

Today, the airport serves as a vital link, with 14 airlines flying non-stop to 45 destinations across the US and Mexico, averaging 260 daily arrivals and departures. By passenger volume, it is presently the 43rd most active airport in the United States. Looking toward the future, a massive expansion project is underway, with the construction of a new Terminal C expected to be completed by 2028. This new facility aims to match the size of the current two terminals combined, featuring up to 17 gates, including six capable of handling wide-body aircraft.

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