Cemetery Near Detroit City Airport: A Brief History

Detroit City Airport has a rich history that spans several decades. Located near Gethsemane Cemetery, the airport transitioned into a hub for pilot training and private aviation in the mid-20th century. Despite its significance, the airport's location proved to be a limitation when it came to accommodating larger aircraft.

In 1922, city officials began searching for an ideal site to build the airport. After considering several options, they settled on a 263-acre location near Conner Creek on Detroit's east side. The first hangar was erected in 1929, and by the 1930s, Detroit City Airport had become the premier airport in the region.

The airport's terminal building was formally dedicated in 1934, with the first aircraft landing at the airport just a few years earlier, on October 14, 1927. During its heyday, the airport was home to several airlines and served as a major hub for private and corporate aviation.

However, the airport's proximity to Gethsemane Cemetery posed a problem when it came to expanding the facility. Despite efforts to add a runway safety zone, the City of Detroit ultimately decided not to pursue expansion, leading to the discontinuation of all commercial flights in 2000.

In 1947, almost all airlines relocated their operations to Willow Run Airport and Wayne County Metropolitan Airport, marking the end of an era for Detroit City Airport. Today, the airport is known as Coleman A. Young Municipal Airport and continues to serve as a hub for pilot training and private aviation, albeit in a smaller capacity than its heyday.

Cemetery near detroit city airport