Welcome to Bullhead City Airport, a gateway to the scenic splendor of Mohave County, Arizona. This airport, now known as Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport, has an intriguing history that reflects the development of the region itself. Established in the early 1940s, the land on which the airport sits was initially acquired from the state of Arizona for the construction of the Davis Dam power plant. This project, initiated by the Bureau of Reclamation in 1947, was pivotal in transforming the local landscape and economy.
The airport itself was constructed on Bureau of Land Management property, serving as a crucial hub for the workers involved in the Davis Dam project. In the following decades, as the dam was completed and the surrounding areas developed, the airport became an essential component of the region’s infrastructure. In 1968, Mohave County leased the airport, and by 1971, it was partially subleased to a private enterprise for fixed-base operations.
A significant transformation occurred in the 1980s and 1990s, as Mohave County Airport Authority facilitated the construction of a new facility on the east side of the original airport. This development included a longer runway, capable of accommodating larger aircraft, and led to the rebranding of the facility as Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport in the early 1990s.
The airport’s evolution is also linked to notable personalities such as Don Laughlin, a gaming pioneer who played a substantial role in the development of the local area. His contributions included funding the construction of the Laughlin Bridge, which connects Nevada and Arizona, and supporting the planning of the airport itself.
Today, Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport stands as a testament to the region’s growth and its ongoing significance as a transport and economic hub. Whether you’re arriving to explore the vibrant local history or to enjoy the nearby attractions, this airport is your first step into the rich tapestry of Bullhead City’s past and present.
