Lambert Airport Live Cam
The primary commercial airport serving metropolitan St. Louis
History
St. Louis Lambert International Airport, commonly known as Lambert Airport, is located in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. It is the largest and busiest airport in the state of Missouri and serves as a major transportation hub for the region. Here is a brief history of Lambert Airport:
Origins and early years: Lambert Airport has its origins in 1920 when it was established as Kinloch Field, a small airfield used for airmail and flight training. It was named after Albert Bond Lambert, a prominent St. Louis aviator and the son of a prominent St. Louis family. The airport saw significant growth during the 1920s and 1930s.
Renaming and expansion: In 1947, the airport was renamed Lambert-St. Louis Municipal Airport to honor Albert Bond Lambert. During the post-World War II era, the airport underwent major expansions to accommodate the growing demand for air travel. New terminals, runways, and other facilities were added to handle the increasing passenger and cargo traffic.
Transatlantic hub and TWA era: In the 1950s and 1960s, Lambert Airport became a major hub for Trans World Airlines (TWA), one of the largest and most influential airlines at the time. TWA's presence at Lambert Airport led to further expansions and improvements, including the construction of Terminal 1, which was dedicated exclusively to TWA operations.
Decline and recovery: In the 1980s and 1990s, Lambert Airport faced several challenges, including the financial struggles of TWA, which eventually declared bankruptcy. The airport saw a decline in passenger traffic, and its facilities became outdated. However, in the early 2000s, the airport began a period of recovery with the construction of a new runway and Terminal 2, which is now known as Terminal 2 (East Terminal).
Privatization and modernization: In 2016, the city of St. Louis entered into a public-private partnership agreement with a consortium led by the private firm, the St. Louis Lambert International Airport Experience (LSLIAE), for a potential long-term lease of the airport. The goal was to leverage private investment and expertise to modernize and enhance the airport's infrastructure and operations.
Recent developments: The privatization process was still ongoing, and the airport was operating under the management of the city of St. Louis. Numerous infrastructure projects and improvements have been undertaken, including the renovation of Terminal 1 and ongoing efforts to attract new airlines and expand air service options.
Lambert Airport continues to be an essential gateway for travelers in the St. Louis metropolitan area and the surrounding region, contributing to the economic growth and connectivity of the area.
Facilities
Lambert Airport offers a range of facilities and amenities to cater to the needs of travelers. Here are some of the main facilities you can find at Lambert Airport:
- Terminals: Lambert Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 (also known as the Main Terminal) and Terminal 2 (also known as the East Terminal). Terminal 1 is the larger and more prominent terminal, handling most domestic and international flights. Terminal 2 primarily serves low-cost carriers and domestic flights. Both terminals offer various amenities and services for passengers.
- Shopping and Dining: Lambert Airport provides a diverse selection of shopping and dining options. Passengers can explore a wide range of retail stores, including duty-free shops, clothing boutiques, bookstores, and gift shops. There are also several dining establishments, including fast-food chains, casual restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.
- Lounges: Lambert Airport offers lounges where passengers can relax and unwind before their flights. These lounges typically provide comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, and business services. Some lounges may be accessible to passengers through airline loyalty programs or by purchasing a day pass.
- Parking: The airport provides a range of parking options to accommodate different needs. There are multiple parking lots and garages available, including short-term parking, long-term parking, and economy parking. The airport also offers a cell phone lot for convenient pick-up and drop-off.
- Ground Transportation: Lambert Airport offers various ground transportation options for travelers. These include taxi services, rideshare services, rental cars, shuttle services, and public transportation options such as buses and light rail. There are designated pick-up and drop-off areas for these services.
- Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Lambert Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminals, allowing passengers to stay connected. Charging stations and power outlets are also available in various locations, enabling travelers to charge their electronic devices.
- Accessibility Services: The airport is committed to providing accessibility services for passengers with disabilities. These services include accessible restrooms, elevators, ramps, and designated parking spaces. Assistance is available for passengers who may require additional support.
- Airport Hotels: Lambert Airport is in close proximity to several hotels, making it convenient for travelers who need accommodation. Some hotels provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport.
These facilities are continually evolving and expanding to meet the needs of passengers. It's always recommended to check the official Lambert Airport website or contact the airport directly for the most up-to-date information on the facilities and services available.
Airlines and destinations
Lambert Airport in St. Louis is served by several domestic and international airlines, offering a range of destinations. Please note that the airline routes and destinations can change over time. Here is a snapshot of some airlines that currently operate at Lambert Airport and some of the destinations they serve:
American Airlines:- Domestic destinations: Charlotte, Chicago-O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Washington-National.
- International destinations: None currently listed.
- Domestic destinations: Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Salt Lake City.
- International destinations: None currently listed.
- Domestic destinations: Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago-Midway, Dallas-Love Field, Denver, Houston-Hobby, Las Vegas, Nashville, Orlando, Phoenix, Tampa.
- International destinations: Cancun, Punta Cana.
- Domestic destinations: Chicago-O'Hare, Denver, Houston-Intercontinental, Newark, San Francisco, Washington-Dulles.
- International destinations: Cancun.
- Domestic destinations: Seattle/Tacoma.
- International destinations: None currently listed.
- Domestic destinations: Atlanta, Cancun, Denver, Fort Myers, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, Punta Cana, Tampa.
- International destinations: None currently listed.
- Domestic destinations: Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando/Sanford, Phoenix/Mesa, Punta Gorda (near Fort Myers), St. Petersburg/Clearwater.
These are just a few examples of the airlines and destinations served by Lambert Airport. It's important to note that the availability of routes and destinations can vary, and new airlines or destinations may be added over time. It's always recommended to check with the specific airline or the official Lambert Airport website for the most up-to-date information on airlines and destinations.
Accidents and incidents
Lambert Airport in St. Louis has experienced a few notable accidents and incidents throughout its history. Here are a few incidents that occurred at Lambert Airport:
- TWA Flight 2 (1942): On January 16, 1942, Trans World Airlines (TWA) Flight 2, a Douglas DC-3 aircraft, crashed shortly after takeoff from Lambert Airport. The accident was attributed to pilot error, poor visibility, and icing conditions. All 13 passengers and crew members on board were killed.
- Ozark Air Lines Flight 809 (1965): On September 17, 1965, a Fairchild Hiller FH-227 aircraft operating as Ozark Air Lines Flight 809 crashed during its approach to Lambert Airport. The crash was caused by a combination of factors, including poor visibility, rain, and pilot error. All 44 passengers and crew members on board were killed.
- American Airlines Flight 96 (1972): On June 4, 1972, American Airlines Flight 96, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10 aircraft, experienced a cargo door failure shortly after takeoff from Lambert Airport. The resulting decompression caused significant damage to the aircraft, but the crew managed to safely land the plane. There were no fatalities among the 67 passengers and crew members on board.
- Southwest Airlines Flight 812 (2011): On April 1, 2011, Southwest Airlines Flight 812, a Boeing 737-300 aircraft, experienced a rapid decompression due to a rupture in the fuselage while en route from Phoenix to Sacramento. The aircraft made an emergency landing at Lambert Airport, and there were no fatalities among the 123 passengers and crew members. The incident prompted inspections and modifications of similar aircraft in Southwest Airlines' fleet.
It's important to note that these incidents are a part of the airport's history but do not represent the overall safety record or current safety standards at Lambert Airport. The aviation industry has implemented various safety measures and protocols to prevent accidents and incidents.