Observance Began in 1939 by Presidential Proclamation

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) joins the aviation industry in recognizing National Aviation Day. In 1939, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed August 19 as National Aviation Day to coincide with the birthday of Orville Wright, known for inventing the first successful aircraft with his brother Wilbur.

“Aviation supports about 87 million jobs worldwide, with a $4.1 trillion economic benefit,” states England Airpark Executive Director Ralph Hennessy. “On a local level, we are fortunate to have air service as an economic driver. Today, we celebrate the history of AEX as we continue to work with airlines to enhance air service into the future.”

The origins of England Airpark and AEX date back to 1939, when the site served as an emergency airstrip for Esler Field Airport, near Pineville. The “England” name honors Lt. Col. John B. England, former commander of the 389th Bomber Squadron at the base. Over the years, England Airpark has served many purposes, including those instrumental to World War II and Korean War operations, and now thrives as a multi-modal commerce center and community, of which AEX is a critical part.

AEX highlights:

• Three terminals for commercial, military, and government use
• Two commercial airlines, American and Delta, serving 200,000 annual passengers
• Two runways
• One of three 24-hour air traffic control towers in Louisiana
• A 24-hour, award-winning fixed base operator, Million Air Alexandria
• Index D Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting
• Intermediate staging base for the S. Army’s Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk

About England Airpark

The England Economic and Industrial Development District is an independent political subdivision of the State of Louisiana. England Airpark encompasses approximately 4,000 acres and includes Alexandria International Airport (AEX). As a mixed-use development offering convenient connectivity through air, interstate highway, rail, and port access, the Airpark features more than 300 residential units and 1.5 million square feet of commercial space, supporting aviation, transportation, manufacturing, education, and engineering sectors. Learn more at www.englandairpark.org.