History

Brief History of the Airport

The Airport was constructed in this location in 1965. In 1999, it was dedicated to Neosho native Hugh A. Robinson, a pioneer in aviation. In 2007, a 3,600-square-foot state-of-the-art terminal was constructed to replace the original two-room 600-square-foot terminal.

The new terminal now offers customers a spacious lobby, a pilots' lounge, a pilots' quiet room with a private restroom and shower, and a conference room with video conferencing capabilities.

Hugh RobinsonAbout Hugh Robinson

Pioneer aviator Hugh Armstrong Robinson was born in Neosho in 1881. He credited much of his success to his childhood in Neosho. After attending local schools he got married, left Neosho, and became the chief engineer for Curtiss Aviation, (one of the world's premier aviation companies).

Innovations

Hugh Robinson was credited with inventing the tailhook, which allows planes to land aboard ships at sea. He was the third man to fly an airplane, made the first right turn in an airplane, and devised the art of dive-bombing. He also made the first medical flight and the first air-sea rescue.

Death & Dedication

Robinson often returned to his birthplace to visit his parents, family members, and friends until his death in 1963. In 1999, Robinson was honored when the City of Neosho named its airport Neosho-Hugh Robinson Memorial Airport.

Resources

For more information on Hugh Robinson please visit the following links: