This story originally ran on VeloCityOKC.com.
The Oklahoma City Airport Trust has officially renamed the state’s busiest commercial airport to OKC Will Rogers International Airport. Approved by the Oklahoma City Council, the new name is part of a broader strategy to align the airport’s identity with Oklahoma City’s growing international presence.
“Promotion of the airport and the community drove the name and logo change,” said Airports Director Jeff Mulder. “Adding OKC and International to the name helps us identify and market the airport and community to airlines and businesses around the world.”
This rebranding effort, highlighted in a newly released video, was guided by research on nearly 100 airports, visits to 14 peer airport sites and extensive community input. The feedback strongly supported adding "OKC" to the airport's name while preserving the legacy of Will Rogers, an aviation pioneer and beloved Oklahoman.
Previously known as Will Rogers World Airport, the renamed OKC Will Rogers International Airport retains its connection to Will Rogers while incorporating "OKC" and "International" to emphasize the airport’s role as a global gateway.
The renaming comes amid significant developments for the airport, which has recently undergone expansions and upgrades to enhance the traveler experience. These improvements, including expanded terminal facilities and modernized amenities, are part of a broader effort initiated earlier this year to better accommodate an increasing number of travelers and international visitors. The new name will be rolled out across the airport in the coming months.
A major part of this expansion includes the previous announcement of a new $37.5 million, three-bay hangar that is expected to create 225 jobs in the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) industry. AAR Corp., an aircraft maintenance services company, broke ground on this 80,000-square-foot MRO facility in April. The new hangar, which will support Boeing 737s for Alaska Airlines, sits adjacent to AAR’s existing seven-bay facility at Will Rogers International Airport.
The expansion has been in the works for years, with funding coming from a $20 million grant from the State of Oklahoma and rent concessions over time from Will Rogers International Airport. “This project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about creating jobs and furthering the state’s second-leading industry, aerospace and aeronautics,” Mulder said.
As Oklahoma City continues to invest in infrastructure citywide, the rebranded OKC Will Rogers International Airport serves as a gateway to a bright future, welcoming visitors and residents alike. With ongoing developments and a strong focus on pro-growth initiatives, the airport is well-positioned to support the city’s expanding role on the global stage.
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