Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is set to commemorate its 50th anniversary on January 13, 2024 (Today), marking half a century since its inauguration in 1974 as the country’s most modern commercial airport.
The year-long celebration, starting Saturday, will reflect on the airport’s achievements and future prospects while expressing gratitude for five decades of community support.
Mayor of Dallas, Eric L. Johnson, highlighted the integral role of DFW in the city’s growth. “North Texas would not be the national success story it is today without DFW Airport. The City of Dallas has grown tremendously over the years in large part due to DFW,” Johnson stated. “While DFW has benefitted our region through jobs and supporting local businesses, it has also served as our connection to the world. We get to show the world all of the great things that make Dallas and North Texas so special. In the next 50 years, you can count on DFW and the City of Dallas welcoming even more businesses, residents, and visitors.”
Sean Donohue, DFW CEO, on the Airport's Enduring Legacy
Sean Donohue, DFW’s Chief Executive Officer, acknowledged the legacy left by the leaders of Dallas and Fort Worth. “All of us at DFW Airport carry the proud legacy that was started by the Dallas and Fort Worth leaders who saw the potential for a combined commercial airport for Dallas and Fort Worth that could grow and support the region well into the future,” Donohue remarked. He credited the community, business partners, particularly American Airlines, and employees for the airport’s success. “Tens of thousands of individuals make up the heartbeat of DFW, and the community is its soul. We thank our many partners, neighbors and friends around the world who have contributed to the ongoing success of this airport.”
Historic Milestones in DFW's 50-Year Timeline
At its inception in 1974, DFW was the largest airport ever built in the U.S., twice the size of any before it. It started operations with nine airlines and has since expanded to host 28 airlines, including 16 international carriers, serving 256 destinations globally. In 2023, DFW was the second-busiest airport in the world, with an estimated 80 million passengers.
Its central location enables customers to reach any major metropolitan area in North America within four hours. DFW, being American Airlines‘ largest hub, is a key factor in the growth of Dallas, Fort Worth, and the wider North Texas region. The airport has witnessed several historic events, including hosting the first U.S. visit of the Concorde in 1973, the space shuttle in 1989, and being the first American airport capable of landing four aircraft simultaneously.
DFW's Economic Impact: A Major Driver for Regional Prosperity
DFW has also evolved into a significant economic force for the regional economy, supporting an annual payroll of $38 billion and over 634,000 jobs. From 2015 to 2019, the number of jobs supported by DFW increased by approximately 25%, rising from over 500,000 to 634,000. The economic activity generated by visitors to DFW and the surrounding region amounts to $24 billion annually, contributing more than $3 billion in state taxes and $2 billion in local taxes, thereby bolstering the region’s economy.