Medford Airport History

Rogue Valley International - Medford Airport (IATA: MFR, ICAO: KMFR) also known as Medford–Jackson County Airport started its operation as an international airbase in 1994 after it has received the foreign-trade zone status. That allowed the airport to collect and store foreign goods, distribute, and process them. The airport's name was changed to the current one after 2.000 entities have conducted voted to do so.

In 1195, the A.C.E. or ‘Airport Community Enthusiasts' group was established as a non-profit organization that was oriented to facilitate Airport access for frequent customers or those supporting its operations and value to the community as a whole. The group allowed the airport to keep its loyal customers updated about the airport improvements, construction plans, and other events.

In August 1997, the airbase presented an excellent airshow called ‘Wings & Wheels.' That year was marked as a record one concerning the passenger traffic that had reached 46.233 people in August and approximately 377.759 people by the end of the year.

As the airport traffic was increasing, the need for the further expansion has arisen. Thus, in 1999 a $14 million runway expansion project was started. That project included the extension of the runway by 2.100 feet and the installation of 356 centerline lights.

On September 15, 2001, the airport was celebrating its 75th-year anniversary accompanies with live music, drawings for free airline tickets, and the opening of the mural.

In 2002, the former president of the United States George W. Bush visited the airport to view the areas destroyed by the Silver Fire previously.

In January 2003, the airport was deprived of the Foreign Trade Zone status; therefore, the ‘International' mark has remained only as the nominal term.

In 2004, the president George W. Bush arrived at the airport together with his wife with re-election purposes.

On March 3, 2006, the new Rogue Valley International - Medford Airport terminal improvements plan was stated. The project included the construction and expansion of the new short- and long-term parking lots, toll booth relocation, etc.

On January 3, 2009, the new terminal was opened. The Opening Ceremony was attended by approximately 2.000 members of the airport community established earlier. Later, in June 2008, the Air Traffic Control Tower was opened as well.