Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
History, Facts and Overview

(Albuquerque, New Mexico - NM, USA)

The city of Albuquerque was once home to two separate airports, which operated during the thirties. However, by 1935 it was decided that it would be sensible to create a new, larger airport to serve the city.

In 1937, the Albuquerque Municipal Airport opened, after building works costing around half a million dollars. With two hard-surface runways and a terminal featuring traditional New Mexico architecture, the airport became the Kirtland army base in the forties.

By the sixties, the number of passenger flights was steadily increasing and it soon became clear that a larger terminal was required to meet needs of Albuquerque Airport.


In 1965, the new passenger terminal was unveiled and is still in use today, being expanded twice since its opening, in 1989 and again in 1996. Today, the airport is known as the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and contains many modern features and facilities.

There are many ATMs located around the terminal of Albuquerque Sunport, allowing you to easily obtain US dollars. Free Wi-Fi Internet access is available throughout the building, along with drinking fountains, Braille signposts and some great shopping and dining options.

A permanent art gallery can be found on the walls of every level of the terminal building for passenger enjoyment, with many paintings are regularly exhibited by local artists from the New Mexico area. Snack and fast-food outlets are also plentiful and airport shops provide an extensive choice of books, print media and Albuquerque souvenirs.