Brookhaven Calabro Airport (HWV)
Located in Shirley in the Town of Brookhaven, Brookhaven Calabro Airport (HWV) is a public-use general aviation airport serving pilots, aviation businesses, and recreational flyers throughout Long Island. Situated near the center of Suffolk County’s South Shore, the airport provides convenient access to communities across the Town of Brookhaven and serves as an important hub for private aviation activities.
Owned and operated by the Town of Brookhaven, the airport is one of Long Island’s most active general aviation facilities. It supports flight training, aircraft maintenance, private aviation, business travel, and aviation-related events while contributing to the region’s transportation infrastructure and economy.
History of Brookhaven Calabro Airport
The airport traces its origins to 1951, when it was established as Brookhaven Airport to serve the growing aviation needs of eastern Long Island. Over the following decades, the facility expanded into one of New York’s largest public-use general aviation airports, attracting pilots and aviation businesses from throughout the Northeast.
In 2004, the airport was renamed Brookhaven Calabro Airport in honor of former Brookhaven Town Supervisor and New York State Assemblyman Felix J. Calabro, recognizing his contributions to the community and support for the airport’s development.
Airport Facilities
Brookhaven Calabro Airport features two paved runways capable of accommodating a wide variety of general aviation aircraft. The airport offers fueling services, aircraft maintenance, hangar facilities, flight instruction, aircraft rentals, and other aviation-related services.
The airport is home to numerous aviation businesses and flying organizations, making it an important center for pilot training and recreational aviation on Long Island. Its extensive facilities support thousands of aircraft operations annually.
A Hub for General Aviation
Unlike commercial airports that focus on scheduled airline service, Brookhaven Calabro Airport is dedicated primarily to general aviation. The facility serves private pilots, corporate aircraft, flight schools, aerial photography operations, emergency services, and aviation enthusiasts from across the region.
Its location near major roadways and central Suffolk County communities makes it a convenient base for pilots traveling throughout Long Island, New York City, and the Northeast.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors arriving through Brookhaven Calabro Airport can easily explore many nearby attractions throughout central and eastern Suffolk County:
- Smith Point County Park – One of Long Island’s most popular oceanfront destinations.
- Fire Island National Seashore – Protected beaches, dunes, and wildlife habitats along the Atlantic coast.
- Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge – A scenic refuge featuring trails, birdwatching, and natural habitats.
- Patchogue – A vibrant South Shore village known for dining, entertainment, and waterfront attractions.
- Shirley – The community that surrounds the airport and serves as a gateway to several nearby parks and beaches.
Economic and Community Impact
Brookhaven Calabro Airport contributes to the local economy through aviation-related businesses, employment opportunities, tourism, and transportation services. The airport also serves as a venue for aviation education, community events, and emergency response activities, helping support both residents and visitors throughout Suffolk County.
Key Facts & Details
| Airport Name | Brookhaven Calabro Airport |
| Airport Code | HWV |
| ICAO Identifier | KHWV |
| Location | Shirley, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York |
| Ownership | Town of Brookhaven |
| Airport Type | Public-Use General Aviation Airport |
| Runways | Two Asphalt Runways |
| Primary Uses | Flight Training, Private Aviation, Business Aviation, Aircraft Services |
| Nearby Attractions | Smith Point County Park, Fire Island National Seashore, Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge |
| Named For | Felix J. Calabro, Former Brookhaven Town Supervisor and New York State Assemblyman |
Brookhaven Calabro Airport remains an important part of Long Island’s aviation network, providing a home for pilots, flight schools, aviation businesses, and recreational flyers. While it does not offer commercial airline service, the airport plays a vital role in supporting general aviation and helping connect Suffolk County with destinations throughout the Northeast.
