Few institutions have withstood the test of time like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Now celebrating its 100th anniversary, the airport marks a century of growth, innovation, and impact—not just on Atlanta, but on the global aviation industry.
Originally opened in 1925 as Candler Field, the site was named after Coca-Cola magnate Asa Griggs Candler Sr, who leased the land—once a racetrack—to the city for aviation use. What began as a modest airfield has since evolved into the world’s busiest and most efficient airport, serving as a hub for domestic and international travel.
City and state leaders gathered to commemorate the milestone, including a host of former Atlanta mayors including Bill Campbell, Kasim Reed, Keisha Lance Bottoms, and current Mayor Andre Dickens. Their leadership has collectively helped shape the airport’s trajectory. Serving as Master of Ceremonies for the event was Ryan Cameron, who is currently the voice of the Atlanta airport.
“It’s truly an honor to serve as mayor during such a milestone—the 100th anniversary of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport,” Dickens said. “This moment represents a century of leadership and progress that has brought us to where we are today: the world’s busiest, most efficient airport, known for excellence in customer service. I’m grateful for the leaders who came before me and proud to continue that legacy.”
Speaking against the sound of in-transit airport travelers, Ricky Smith, the airport’s newly appointed General Manager, reflected on his first days on the job and the historic timing of his arrival.
“I’m in my second week,” Smith said with a smile, “On my first day, the mayor invited me to an interfaith luncheon—an absolutely surprising and meaningful way to start this journey, with prayer. And now, in my second week, I find myself in the presence of this amazing celebration.”
Smith noted that the centennial is only the beginning of a series of commemorative milestones.
“Over the next several months, we’ve planned quite an exciting celebration as we capture two centennial anniversaries between now and September 2026. The first is actually tomorrow, April 16, marking the 1925 legislation that transformed the old Candler Field into an airfield. On September 16, 2026, we’ll celebrate again— 100 years since the first airmail flight landed here from Miami. If this is any indication of what the future holds, we’re going to have a lot of fun.”
According to Airport Executive Deputy Manager Jan Lennon, Hartsfield-Jackson brings in an estimated $66 billion in economic impact annually, reinforcing its status as an engine for growth not just in Atlanta, but across the region.
Georgia Representative Nikema Williams also took to the stage to honor the legacy of former Mayor Maynard Jackson, whose leadership ensured that at least 25% of airport contracts are awarded to women, Black, and other minority-owned businesses—an equity-driven policy that continues to shape procurement practices and economic opportunities.
With a proclamation in hand, Williams announced that April 16 is officially recognized as Hartsfield-Jackson Day in Congress. She emphasized the airport’s lasting influence and expansive potential,
“Under this centennial milestone,” Williams declared, “I look forward to the next century of flight and economic vision for the people of not just this region, not just the state, but the entire nation.”