Morse Field

The airfield was closed because its strategic military purpose became obsolete following the end of World War II. It was built specifically to defend Hawaii from a potential southern invasion by Japanese forces, a threat which no longer existed after 1945. It was deemed surplus military property and was not required for post-war operations.

The site is now part of the Ka Lae National Historic Landmark District. The original, long asphalt runways are heavily deteriorated but still visible and are sometimes used by locals and tourists as access roads to reach the cliffs at South Point. The land is primarily used for cattle grazing and is home to the Pakini Nui Wind Farm, which takes advantage of the same strong winds that once aided pilot training. A portion of the former airfield is also occupied by a Viasat Real-Time Earth satellite tracking station, which utilizes the location's clear skies and radio-quiet environment.

Morse Field, also known as Ka Lae Airfield, was a significant U.S. Army Air Forces base during World War II. Constructed in 1942, its primary mission was to house fighter aircraft (such as P-40 Warhawks) of the Seventh Air Force to intercept any enemy forces approaching from the south. It served as a vital defense outpost for the Hawaiian Islands. In addition to its defensive role, it was used extensively as a training facility for pilots, including for gunnery and bombing practice, due to the area's strong and consistent winds. The airfield was named in honor of 2nd Lt. George L. Morse, a pilot killed in a crash at the field in 1942.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening Morse Field as an active airport. The infrastructure is completely derelict, the location is remote, and the area is now a National Historic Landmark. The Big Island is adequately served by Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO), making a new airport at South Point economically and logistically unfeasible.