Picture this: A crisp autumn morning at Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport. The air smells faintly of jet fuel and damp leaves. This unassuming airfield holds a unique place in Michigan’s aviation history.
Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport serves as a vital general aviation hub. It is located just south of Plymouth’s central business district. The Michigan Department of Transportation owns and operates it. Also known as Mettetal Airport it plays a key role for local pilots.
Founded in the 1930s, it started as a simple grass strip. Farmers used it for crop dusting. By 1939, it officially became a public-use airport. For over eight decades Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport has supported the region’s aviation needs.
The airport covers 63 acres. Its single runway 18/36 stretches 2,303 feet. The asphalt surface is maintained so its always ready for takeoffs and landings. Although small it sees a fair amount of traffic.
In 2020, Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport recorded 13,870 general aviation operations. That averages to about 38 flights per day. The airport housed 78 aircraft including single-engine and multi-engine airplanes plus a few helicopters.
Touch-and-go operations are prohibited here. This is due to the runway’s short length. That might seem restrictive but safety always comes first.
In 2017, Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport became home to something quite extraordinary. Detroit Flying Cars chose it as the base for their prototype flying car. The company aimed to create an aircraft that could drive like a car and fly like a plane. This innovative project even made an appearance at the EAA AirVenture Airshow in Oshkosh.
The airport has faced its share of challenges. In late 2015, an unexpected tornado damaged the area. Despite the setback the airport community rallied.
Recent improvements include a new helicopter-focused hangar. Opened in early 2022 it doubled the available hangar space. This shows ongoing investment in the airport’s future.
Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport offers essential services. An FBO provides fuel and aircraft parking. This ensures pilots have what they need for safe and efficient flights.
Several incidents have occurred over the years. These include a Cessna 150 crash in 1998 due to engine failure. A Piper PA-32 Cherokee Six also crashed in 2002. More recently, a Vans RV-4 crashed during landing in 2019. These incidents underscore the inherent risks of aviation.
So the next time you’re near Canton-Plymouth-Mettetal Airport take a moment. Think about its history. Consider its role in local aviation. It’s more than just a place to land. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of flight.