- Hughes Airport is a historic airport located in the city of Culver City, California, United States. Originally opened in 1930 as the Grand Central Airport, it was later renamed Hughes Airport in honor of the famous aviator and businessman Howard Hughes. The airport played a significant role in early aviation history and was known for its unique art deco terminal building. However, it ceased operations as a commercial airport in 1953 and is now primarily used for private aviation and aircraft storage. The terminal building has been preserved and now serves as the headquarters for several film production companies.