The Proud History that Launched a Great Future It was back in 1911 that Cheyenne had its first glimpse into the world of aviation. While the air demonstration at the fairgrounds that year was less than impressive, it marked the beginning of what would become a rich aviation history. Throughout the years, the Cheyenne Airport would not only impact the city's economy, but its cultural history, as well.

It was the U.S. Post Office that gave Cheyenne's fledgling aviation efforts its first real boost. With the introduction of airmail routes following WWI, the Cheyenne civic leaders successfully lobbied to establish Cheyenne as a cross country site. Buck Heffron piloted the first air mail flight destined for Salt Lake City on September 9, 1920 . Heffron flew in a DH-4, an aircraft that could barely reach an altitude high enough to clear the mountains and had a maximum speed of 100 mph. The pilot was one of the brave aviators who took off on daring flights guided only by limited instruments, landmarks and a few maps.

Cheyenne's airport saw its first commercial passengers take to the skies in the 1920s. This first passenger was Elizabeth Brown, a female barber. She enjoyed a ride with WWI pilot, C.A. McKenzie, in a Curtis Oriole biplane. With the step up to the impressive DC-3 in 1935, passengers enjoyed greater comfort and safety. Soon, the famous DC 3s were flying Cheyenne passengers to both coasts and south to Denver via three major airlines.

During World War II, the airport served as a completion and modification center for B-17 aircraft. And up until 1961, the airport also housed the training center where United Airlines stewardesses came from across the country to train.

The airport was not without its share of celebrated visitors. Among those illustrious aviators to touch down on its runways were Charles Lindbergh, aboard the famous "Spirit of St. Louis," and Amelia Earhart. Many of the airport's rich historic events are chronicled in fascinating display on the walls inside the airport restaurant.

Informational resources: The Cheyenne Regional Airport and The Wyoming Aviation Hall of Fame, 1996, by Capt. William D. "Billy" Walker, Jr. and Fly Cheyenne brochure.