Floyd Bennett Field: From General Aviation to Naval Use
Floyd Bennett Field, New York's first municipal airport, has a rich history that spans from 1931 to 1971. Initially, it served as a private and public airport, welcoming a variety of aircraft and pilots. However, its fate took a significant turn in 1941 when it was sold to the United States Navy and renamed Naval Air Station-New York (NAS New York). This transition marked the closure of the field to general aviation, leading to a significant period in aviation history. In this article, we will explore the historical journey of Floyd Bennett Field, from its early days to its closure for general aviation and the eventual deactivation of the naval air station in 1971.
Origins and Early Days: 1931-1941
Floyd Bennett Field was inaugurated in 1931 and quickly gained recognition as a premier facility for aviation. Named after the legendary aviator Floyd Bennett, the field was part of the burgeoning aviation industry that marked the early 20th century. Initially operated by the City of New York, it boasted a 4,280-foot-long main runway, a 2,080-foot cross runway, and a control tower. The facility was equipped with hangars and administrative buildings, making it a hub for both private and public aviation.
The field quickly became a popular destination for pilots and aircraft enthusiasts. General aviation saw significant growth during this period, with numerous flights taking off and landing at Floyd Bennett Field. The famous FAREY-STEADMAN TRIMOTORS were frequent visitors, adding to the field's prestige. Notable figures in aviation, such as Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh, also made stops at the field, further cementing its place in aviation history.
However, the onset of World War II in 1939 heralded a significant change for Floyd Bennett Field. As the United States entered the conflict, the federal government identified the field as a prime location for military aviation operations. In 1941, the City of New York sold the field to the Department of the Navy for $1.
Closure to General Aviation: 1941-1971
The sale of Floyd Bennett Field to the Navy in 1941 marked a pivotal moment in the field's history. The renaming to Naval Air Station-New York (NAS New York) signified a shift towards military operations. General aviation activities were effectively shut down, ending the field's role as a public airport. The change was sudden and abrupt, leaving many general aviation enthusiasts and local pilots disappointed. The field now served exclusively as a naval base for training, maintenance, and operations of naval aircraft.
The closure of Floyd Bennett Field to general aviation led to the relocation of numerous pilots and aircraft. Many of the hangars, control tower, and other facilities were repurposed for naval use, ensuring their long-term operation. The field became a center for naval aviation training, housing squadrons and support facilities. While this transition brought about a new era for the field, it also marked the end of an era for general aviation enthusiasts who cherished the field’s past.
NAS New York: 1941-1971
Naval Air Station-New York operated from 1941 until 1971, serving as a critical hub for naval aviation in the New York metropolitan area. The naval air station was deactivated on October 1, 1971, signaling the end of a significant chapter in the field's history. During its operational years, NAS New York provided essential services for the Navy, including pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and logistics support.
The field's strategic location near New York City made it an ideal location for naval operations. Its proximity to the coastline allowed for easy access to the Atlantic, facilitating training exercises and deployments. The naval air station also played a crucial role in supporting military operations during the Cold War era, providing a vital link between the Navy and the city.
The Aftermath: Preservation and Future
After the deactivation of NAS New York in 1971, efforts were made to preserve the field and its historical significance. In 1976, the site was designated as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its importance in American aviation and naval history. Today, Floyd Bennett Field is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, managed by the National Park Service. Visitors can explore the area, which now includes a visitors' center, walking trails, and areas dedicated to aviation and military heritage.
The site has undergone renovations and improvements to ensure that its historical significance is preserved and accessible to the public. Efforts continue to educate visitors about the field's rich history, including its role as a general aviation airport and its subsequent transformation into a naval base. The field remains a reminder of the evolution of aviation and naval operations in the United States, serving as a tribute to the pilots, mechanics, and military personnel who contributed to its success.
Conclusion
The journey of Floyd Bennett Field from a bustling general aviation airport to a naval air station is a testament to the changing nature of aviation and military operations. The field's transition in 1941 marked the closure to general aviation, leading to a significant period of naval use. Its eventual deactivation in 1971 ended a historic chapter, but the site's preservation ensures that its legacy lives on. Today, as a National Historic Landmark, Floyd Bennett Field remains a vital part of aviation and military history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the evolution of aviation in the United States.