Looking Back

Recently it was announced that for the first time, regularly scheduled flights will be available in and out of Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF).  Allegiant, a regional carrier, has announced non-stop flights to the following cities beginning this summer:

Cincinnati, St. Louis, Houston, Kansas City, Knoxville and Fayetteville.

A passenger terminal is currently under construction and car rentals will be available.  It has come a long way since its beginning.

Originally called Canal Field, it was first operated by the U.S. Navy as a satellite field used for training naval aviators.  Over time, the need for these satellite fields lessened and with the help of Alabama Congressman Jack Edwards, the airport ownership transferred from the US Navy to the State of Alabama in 1977, and in 1983, the airport was purchased by the City of Gulf Shores. 

Since then, the airport has become quite busy as a hub for general aviation, with lighted runways, a staffed terminal, flight schools, aviation fuel and maintenance, numerous hangers and modern instrument landing systems.

As a personal note, as a private pilot, I have fond memories of leaving work in Birmingham late afternoon and flying from Shelby County airport about 200 miles to “Canal Field” and arriving just before dark (no runway lights) - a beautiful 1 ½ hour flight.  It’s been awhile but I think I had to refuel at the Foley airport to return to Birmingham.  Fun times!

We’ve taken some pics of the tower and passenger terminal as of May 4, 2025.