Additionally, Brainard could not accommodate large aircraft because its runways are too short; the airport's proximity to Connecticut River also resulted in fog problems.

[3] As a result, larger aviation began to move to the new Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks after it opened in 1947, and by 1958 all commercial carriers had relocated.

A large runway was closed to support development of the South Meadows commercial and industrial district off Brainard Road, reducing the airport's size to 201 acres (81.3 ha).

[8] In 1993, a proposal by then-governor of Connecticut Lowell Weicker to close Brainard and move operations to Rentschler Field in East Hartford was unsuccessful.

[6] A 30% decline in takeoffs and landings between 2010 and 2020, annual operating losses, and non-taxable property were cited by supporters of closure,[7] while supporters of keeping the airport open pointed to a 2016 study that said the airport contributes more than 100 private-sector jobs to the region, serves as a public safety hub, and should be renovated and expanded.