Commissioning of Naval Air Station North Island
The U.S. Navy officially commissions NAS North Island as America enters World War I.
Listen to the historical narrative via browser voice narration
Archival Chronicle & Historical Significance
Historical Chronicle
Curtiss JN-4 military airplanes lined up on the coastal runway of Rockwell Field and Naval Air Station North Island during World War I mobilization.
On November 8, 1917, amidst the emergency mobilization of the United States for World War I, the federal government officially commissioned Naval Air Station North Island. Situated on the expansive, flat sandspit adjacent to Coronado, the strategic airfield was established as the premier flight training and operations base for naval aviators, seaplanes, and coastal patrol airships.
North Island rapidly expanded into the industrial and operational heart of Pacific naval aviation. Engineers constructed massive aircraft hangars, deep-water seaplane ramps, repair depots, and testing runways. Over the subsequent decades, the base served as the staging point for historic long-distance flights, including Charles Lindberg’ 1927 departure in the Spirit of St. Louis on his transcontinental journey toward Paris.
As the primary homeport and aviation depot for the Pacific Flee’ mighty aircraft carriers, NAS North Island earned its revered title as the "Birthplace of Naval Aviation." The bas’ historic partnership with the City of Coronado has shaped the civic, economic, and social character of the Crown City for more than a century.
Other Key Milestones in this Era
Glenn Curtiss & Birthplace of Naval Aviation
Aviation pioneer Glenn H. Curtiss executes the first successful seaplane flight in North Island waters, founding naval aviation.
Lt. Theodore G. Ellyson Becomes Naval Aviator No. 1
Trained by Glenn Curtiss at North Island, Lt. Ellyson receives the first naval aviator wings in history.
Founding of the Coronado Flower Show
The largest tented flower show in the United States begins in Spreckels Park.
Primary Archival Sources & Official Portals
Share Chronicle & Academic Citation
Distribute verified Coronado historical records or cite this resource in academic, educational, and journalistic works.