Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport Facts for Kids

The Minneapolis—Saint Paul International Airport (often called MSP Airport) is a big airport in Minnesota. It is used by both regular travelers and the military. The airport is in Hennepin County, close to both Minneapolis and Saint Paul. It helps people travel to and from states like Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. This airport got its "International Airport" name around 1944.

The Beatles arriving at Minneapolis-Saint Paul in 1965.

About the Airport
- What is a Joint Civil-Military Airport?
- Where is MSP Located?
History of MSP Airport
- How MSP Got Its Name
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About the Airport

The Minneapolis—Saint Paul International Airport is a very important travel hub. It serves millions of passengers every year. The airport has many runways and terminals. These help planes take off and land safely. It also has shops, restaurants, and other services for travelers.

What is a Joint Civil-Military Airport?

MSP Airport is special because it is a "joint civil-military" airport. This means it is used by both regular airlines and the military. Civilian planes carry passengers and cargo. Military planes also use the airport for their operations. This shared use helps both groups.

Where is MSP Located?

The airport is in Hennepin County, Minnesota. It is very close to two major cities: Minneapolis and Saint Paul. This makes it easy for people from both cities to get to their flights. Its central location also makes it a key airport for the wider region.

History of MSP Airport

The airport has a long and interesting history. It started many years ago and has grown a lot. Over time, new buildings and runways have been added. This growth helps the airport handle more flights and passengers.

How MSP Got Its Name

The airport was first known by other names. Around 1944, it officially became the "International Airport." This name shows that it connects Minnesota to places all over the world. It also means it can handle flights coming from other countries.