Stillwater Regional Airport's First Commercial Flight

On August 23, 2016, Stillwater made history as it welcomed its first-ever commercial flight into Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO). This milestone marked the beginning of a new era of connectivity and convenience for the community and its visitors.

The inaugural flight, operated by American Airlines, departed from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and was met with great fanfare upon arrival. Oklahoma State University, the City of Stillwater, and American Airlines invited the public to join in the celebration with an open house and refreshments at the airport. The excitement in the air was palpable as residents, local leaders, and aviation enthusiasts gathered to witness this significant moment.

Pete, Pilot and Airport Director at First Commercial Flight

Mayor Gina Noble, who played a crucial role in bringing commercial air service to Stillwater, expressed her enthusiasm: “We are very fortunate to have American Airlines jet service offered here in Stillwater. This will not only make it easier for our residents to fly from their hometown, but it will also expand travel opportunities for our local businesses to connect with national and international clients and boost this region’s economy.”

OSU President, Burns Hargis, Deplaning 2016

OSU President, Burns Hargis, Deplaning First commercial flight from DFW in 2016

The event featured speeches by prominent figures, including OSU President Burns Hargis and Mayor Noble, who both praised the efforts of those who worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality. Special recognition was given to former Mayor John Bartley, OSU Senior Vice President Joe Weaver, Stillwater Regional Airport Director Gary Johnson, and members of the Stillwater Airport Authority for their dedication to this project.

The first flight initiated two daily non-stop flights between Stillwater and Dallas, offering seamless connections to over 190 cities in 29 countries. The service quickly gained a loyal following, with more than double the expected number of passengers during its first year of operation.

Dignitaries Celebrate First Commercial Flight

As Mayor Noble highlighted, this new service brought numerous benefits to Stillwater. For residents, flying for business or pleasure became more accessible and convenient. With SWO’s close proximity to the heart of Stillwater, minutes from the OSU campus and downtown, travelers could enjoy the convenience of flying close to home. The airport also offers free parking with more than 200 spots near the terminal, competitive fares, and the elimination of travel time and additional expenses associated with commuting to farther airports like those in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

Travelers on the 50-seat regional jet aircraft also appreciated the shorter security lines and quick baggage claim, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable. The addition of commercial air service to Stillwater has not only improved the quality of life for residents but has also had a powerful impact on the region’s economic development activities, attracting more visitors and supporting local businesses.

First Commercial Flight Touches Down

Today, Stillwater Regional Airport serves an average of more than 50,000 passengers annually and continues to be a critical asset for the community. It’s also home to OSU’s state-of-the-art flight center, and OSU athletic teams regularly charter flights through this convenient facility.