WWII Hangars, Chickasha Airport

Opened in 1941 as Wilson-Bonifils Field, the airport conducted contract basic flying training for the United States Army Air Forces. Flying training was performed with Fairchild PT-19s as the primary trainer. Around 8,000 troops were trained at Wilson-Bonifils as part of the 31st Flying Training Wing. During wartime, the airport had six grass runways. The airfield was deactivated in 1945 and turned over to civil control.  The WWII era hangars still standing are a testament to Oklahoma’s important role in wartime training. They are eligible for listing in the National Register for Historic Places and are in fair condition. Preservation and renovation is needed on the hangars and public awareness may help keep the buildings standing for many more years.