Grand Junction Stills Say Walker Field: This Is Why

When you hear someone mention the airport in Grand Junction, what name do they use? Today, its official name is Grand Junction Regional Airport, but plenty of longtime residents still call it Walker Field.

Who was Walter Walker, and why do so many people still use his name on the Western Slope? His vision helped connect Western Colorado to the rest of the country, and Grand Junction continues to remember that 96 years later.

Get our free mobile app

From a Dirt Airstrip to Walker Field

Grand Junction Airport Lands $12.5M For New Runways — Google Street

Grand Junction opened its municipal airport in 1930. It featured dirt runways, two hangars, and it's own fuel facilities. The name was changed from Grand Junction Municipal Airport to Walker Field in honor of Walter Walker, publisher of the city’s Daily Sentinel. Walker was a big fan of the airport and an avid supporter of expanding aviation in Grand Junction during the first half of the 20^th Century.

How Commercial Air Service Changed Western Colorado

Commercial passenger flights began in Grand Junction following World War II, beginning with Western Airlines adding scheduled service in 1946. The following year, United Airlines also added Grand Junction. Walker Field opened up Western Colorado with faster connections for businesses, tourists, agriculture, and military travel. Walker Field grew easily from a local landing strip into an important transportation hub.

Growing Into the Western Slope's Aviation Hub

Despite some serious competition from Montrose Regional Airport, Grand Junction Regional Airport remains the largest commercial airport west of the Continental Divide within the state of Colorado. Walker Field officially changed its name on May 15, 2007, to strengthen its regional identity. However, don’t be surprised if the next time you overhear someone giving directions, they say, “head towards Walker Field.”

LOOK: 17 Items Banned from Checked Bags at Colorado's Airports

You may be familiar with items you are not allowed to pack in your carry-on bag, but how long has it been since you looked at the list of items banned from checked baggage? Keep reading to check out seventeen reminders about items you should not place in your suitcase before heading to Denver International Airport.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: The Top 20 Largest Employers in Mesa County, Colorado

See the top twenty companies that employ the largest number of people in Mesa County Colorado.

KEEP GOING: Colorado’s Top 10 School Districts for 2026

For Colorado families, school district rankings can shape everything from where to buy a home to where kids have the best shot at academic success. Niche.com’s new 2026 rankings place several smaller mountain communities among the best in the state, with many earning A+ overall grades based on academics, teachers, and parent reviews.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams