Dade–Collier Training and Transition Airport
A full-length commercial runway in the middle of the Everglades. More alligators than planes. No fuel, no food, no reason to be here — except that it exists.
Built in 1969 as a training airport for Eastern Airlines, Dade-Collier was supposed to become Miami's second major international airport. The plans collapsed. The runway stayed. It's now one of the most remote public-use airports in the continental United States — a 10,500-foot strip of asphalt surrounded by nothing but sawgrass and water.
The airport is technically open to the public and free to visit. Drive west on US-41 (Tamiami Trail) about 40 miles from Miami. You'll see the runway before you see any signage. There is no tower, no fuel, no services. Bring water.
On a clear day, the silence is absolute. Alligators sun themselves on the taxiway. Occasionally a small plane lands, the pilot gets out, looks around, and leaves. That's the whole experience. It's perfect.
