Airport History
FLO has a proud history that dates back to the Roaring Twenties. Over the decades, the airport has evolved into a key transportation hub for the Pee Dee region, connecting travelers and supporting economic growth. As FLO approaches its 100th anniversary, we honor our legacy and celebrate our present while looking ahead to a bright future.
A Rich History
The Florence Regional Airport began in 1928 when local leaders purchased 300 acres of land to develop the first major airport in the region. The airport was christened the following year with the landing of its first flight, on December 26, 1929. Another historic event took place on March 30, 1931, when the United States Postal Service added Florence Regional Airport to its airmail route system. After the onset of World War II, the War Department acquired an additional 1,400 acres and used the site as an Army Air Corps training base. During the war years, P-39 Aircobra, P-40 Warhawk, Pursuit/Fighter aircraft, and A-20 Havoc and A-26 Marauder light attack/bomber aircraft crews and support personnel trained here.
Following the war, the property was deeded back to the City of Florence and later split with Florence County. During this period, the airport was served by two major airlines: Eastern Airlines from 1948 – 1965 and Piedmont Airlines until 1981.
A Beautiful Today
The Florence City-County Airport Commission governed the airport until the state legislature created the Pee Dee Regional Airport District in 1990. The Airport District is now a political subdivision of the State of South Carolina and encompasses Dillon, Florence, and Marion counties.
Today, FLO is served by American Airlines with three daily flights to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), with the most recent addition launching in August 2024. As AA’s second largest hub, these flights to Charlotte give our community access to approximately 200 domestic and international destinations, opening the way to travel beyond—with the convenience of starting your journey close to home.
In May 2025, we announced our rebrand, “Fly FLO, Fly Home,” during the Aviation Day celebration at the airport. We look forward to the improvements we plan to make, and we want our community to be part of our growth every step of the way.
A Bright Future
In 2028, FLO will celebrate 100 years of service to the community. What began as a modest airfield has grown into a vital gateway for the region. As we approach this milestone, the airport is undergoing transformative changes that will make it nearly unrecognizable from its early days—in the best way possible. From enhanced facilities to expanded services, FLO is preparing for the next century of flight.