MDOT - Maryland Department of Transportation
11/06/2025 | Press release | Archived content
Maryland and Department of Transportation Unveils Historical Marker Honoring 75-Year Legacy of BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Maryland Department of Transportation Public Affairs
Officials and Community Leaders Recognize the Airport's Service as a Vital Transportation Hub and Economic Engine for Maryland and the Region
HANOVER, MD (November 6, 2025) - Maryland transportation officials and community leaders today unveiled a new roadside historical marker honoring the rich history and lasting legacy of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The marker recognizes the airport's critical role in advancing aviation, fostering economic growth and connecting Maryland and the National Capital region to destinations around the world. The roadside marker will be placed near the BWI Trail at the Thomas A. Dixon, Jr. Aircraft Observation Area on the south side of BWI Marshall Airport.
"This historical marker is a testament to the dedicated individuals who built and sustained this airport," said Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle. "For 75 years, BWI Marshall Airport has shaped our local community while connecting Maryland to the world."
The creation of the roadside historical marker is part of a series of initiatives and events this year marking the 75th anniversary of BWI Marshall Airport. Originally named Friendship International Airport, in honor of the nearby Friendship Methodist Church and surrounding community, the airport was officially dedicated by President Harry S. Truman on June 24, 1950. Since then, BWI Marshall Airport has evolved into a dynamic international gateway - serving millions of passengers annually and connecting people, businesses and cultures.
"BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport is as a vital economic engine that supports tourism and commerce, while serving as a point of pride for our community," said Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director/CEO of BWI Marshall Airport. "The new marker acknowledges the hard work and vision of the employees, airlines, and partners - both current and past - that helped create our history."
BWI Marshall Airport is a leading aviation hub for Maryland and the National Capital Region. The airport served more than 27 million passengers in 2024 and offers approximately 300 daily nonstop departures to about 90 domestic and international destinations. BWI Marshall Airport generates a total economic impact of $11.3 billion, supporting more than 107,000 jobs across Maryland and the region.
The new BWI Marshall Airport roadside marker is part of the effort of the Maryland Department of Transportation and the Maryland Historical Trust to increase the number of markers that highlight the state's untold stories. To learn more about Maryland's roadside historical marker program and to see an interactive map of all the markers click here .
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