Pilots, Pinballs and Politics: The History of Naples Municipal Airport

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During the early days of aviation in Collier County, Florida, planes landed on a golf course or on the beach. But, that all changed in December 1943. World War II clamored for more pilots, more gunners, and more aircraft. The Naples Airdrome was built and suddenly the skies over Naples, Florida were filled with P-39s, P-40s, B-17s, and RP-63s. The orange Pinball (RP-63) participated in the Army Airforce’s flexible gunnery training program. Hundereds of pilots and gunners were trained for combat and sent to the Pacific or European fronts.

Here is the story of an airport and it’s people. Follow the making of an airfield, hollowed out in the sawgrass and swamps of Collier County. From alligator wrestling, bivouacs and beach parties to tragedies, hurricanes, and disasters, learn all about the life at Naples Airdrome. Here is the sweeping story of an airport, from military occupation in 1941 to aviation’s premier destination for the rich and famous in the 1980s. Here is a rich fascinating history of the Naples Municipal Airport’s spirit and mission to the world of aviation.