In 1929, U.S. Airways made its first flight to the Hays Airport and landed on a gravel runway. The two level runway was 2,000 feet long and located on a pasture of the Fort Hays Experimental Station.

In 1937, the airport then developed a grassy land strip that was 4,000 foot by 150 foot.

In the 1960’s more land was purchased, a paved runway, taxiway, and apron areas were constructed.

In 1969, the FAA installed a VORTAC facility.

In 1988, a new terminal building was constructed.

In 2001, the primary runway 16-34 was expanded.

In 2003, a crosswind runway 4-22 was constructed.