The Huntsville Airport land was purchased from Bryan and Kathleen Mitchusson in November of 1983, with construction starting shortly afterwards.  The land was purchased with grant money that the State of Arkansas reserves from aviation fuel sales tax and aviation-related sales tax. 

The 3600′ runway holds the highest airport elevation in Arkansas.  The first tower was donated by the Springdale Municipal Airport, and later the main tower building was donated by Fayetteville’s Drake Field Airport.  Several grants have been obtained over the years for paving the runway, purchasing fuel tanks, and building hangars.  The commission plans to apply for more grant funding soon to build additional hangars.

The Airport Commission was established in March of 1983, with four of the original members still serving in the operation of the airport.  Charles Coger, Mayor at the time of the airport’s creation, has served as Chairman of the Airport Commission since its establishment, with the exception of the first year.  Tem Dotson has served as commissioner since its beginning, as well as Bill Smith, who held the position of Chairman during the first year.  Tom Wyatt served as commissioner from 1983, resigning in 2007 to serve on the Huntsville City Council, and is still very active in meeting the airport’s operational needs.  Wyatt’s wife, Ruth, has held a position as commissioner since her husband’s resignation.