06/27/2026
- 0430 Wake Up
- Make some coffee, let the dog out to go potty, drop in on FB for a few minutes while I sip on my Cup-of-Joe...
- 0530 hit the road for the Grand Re-Opening of Christman Field in Fort Collins, Colorado!
Here's a few shots from this morning....
Aviation Photography By Lavery-Av-Photog
Christman Field is one of Colorado's oldest continuously used airfields. Originally opened as the Fort Collins Municipal Airport in 1928, it served as a World War II pilot training facility before becoming a university testing ground for the Colorado State University Drone Center.
Its rich history spans multiple distinct eras:
- WWII & Naming (1940s): Originally the Fort Collins Municipal Airport, it became a vital training facility during World War II. In 1943, it was renamed in honor of Fort Collins native and WWII aviator Lt. Col. Bert Christman, who died flying with the legendary Flying Tigers over Burma.
- Manufacturing Era (1950s-1960s): The site transitioned to aviation manufacturing, serving as the production hub for Luscombe and Forney Ercoupe aircraft. (It even hosted First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt in 1958 when she flew in to attend a CSU commencement ceremony).
- Reversion to CSU (1965-Present): Following the opening of the newer Fort Collins Downtown Airport in 1965, general aviation operations moved away and Christman Field reverted to Colorado State University.
- Emergency Response: The airfield has served as a command post and operational hub for firefighting and rescue aircraft during natural crises, including the 2012 High Park Fire, 2013 floods, and 2020 Cameron Peak Fire.
- Modern Upgrades & Drone Research: The facility was upgraded with runway and lighting renovations. It operates as a high-tech drone research, testing, and aerospace facility.
Info: Google AI
