Coleman Young International Airport
Coleman A. Young International Airport, located in Detroit, Michigan, is a public airport handling over 75,000 aircraft operations annually[1]. Originally established as Detroit City Airport in 1927, it stands as one of the earliest municipal airports in the United States[2]. Today, the airport serves as a Class C gateway, offering a range of aviation facilities and services while playing a critical role in the Detroit metropolitan area's transportation infrastructure.
History
The airport’s origins trace back to October 14, 1927, when it opened as Detroit City Airport[3]. This establishment positioned Detroit at the forefront of municipal aviation development in the United States. In its early years, the airport facilitated the growth of commercial and private aviation within the region, serving as a vital hub for air travel and commerce. The airport’s initial design and infrastructure were modest compared to modern standards, but it quickly became an essential component of Detroit’s expanding transportation network.
A significant turning point in the airport’s history occurred with its renaming to Coleman A. Young International Airport in honor of Coleman Young, the first African American mayor of Detroit[4]. This renaming reflected Young’s commitment to the city and his dedication to improving its infrastructure and opportunities for all residents. While passenger services ceased on September 18, 2000[5], the airport continues to operate as a crucial facility for general aviation, cargo operations, and other aviation-related activities.
Geography
Coleman A. Young International Airport encompasses 300 acres of land[6]. The airport’s location within Wayne County, Michigan, provides convenient access for both local and regional travelers. Its coordinates are 42°24′33″N 083°00′36″W[7], placing it within close proximity to the city of Detroit and other major metropolitan areas in southeastern Michigan. The airport’s elevation is 626 feet (191 meters) above mean sea level.
The airport’s infrastructure includes two runways, with the longest runway measuring 5090 feet in usable space[8]. It also features an Air Carrier Terminal, an Executive Terminal, 14 large hangars, and 129 small hangars with a total of 145 hangar bays[9]. This diverse range of facilities supports a variety of aviation activities, from private aircraft storage and maintenance to commercial cargo operations. The airport's layout is designed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft types and sizes.
Economy
Coleman A. Young International Airport contributes to the local economy through various avenues, despite the cessation of passenger services. The airport supports numerous jobs within the aviation sector, including airport operations, maintenance, and related services. The presence of numerous hangars and aviation businesses generates economic activity through aircraft storage, repair, and sales. The airport's role as a Class C gateway facilitates the movement of goods and people, contributing to regional commerce.
The Airport Department, under City Ordinance Section 4-1-2, is responsible for acquiring, holding, developing, and operating aviation facilities, as well as leasing these facilities[10]. This department also represents the city in all aviation matters and manages city properties devoted to aviation activities. The economic impact extends beyond direct employment, as the airport supports businesses that provide services to the aviation industry, such as fuel suppliers, catering companies, and ground transportation providers.
Getting There
Access to Coleman A. Young International Airport is primarily by road. The airport is located near major roadways, facilitating convenient access for drivers from various parts of Detroit and surrounding areas. Public transportation options to the airport are limited, and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services is common. Detailed directions and transportation information can be found on the City of Detroit’s website[11].
For those arriving by air, the airport is easily identifiable by its IATA code DET and ICAO code KDET[12]. Pilots utilizing the airport benefit from its classification as a Class C gateway, providing specific air traffic control procedures and services. The airport’s location and facilities make it a convenient destination for general aviation pilots and cargo operators alike. Information regarding CBP procedures at the airport is available through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website[13].