The airport played a significant role in connecting Malaya to global destinations, with its facilities progressively upgraded to accommodate increasing air traffic.

In 2018, the airport ceased all operations, making way for the Bandar Malaysia project, a large-scale mixed-use development set to transform the site into a modern urban hub.

An aircraft from Imperial Airways, specifically the Armstrong Whitworth Atlanta, was among the first to land at the airstrip, demonstrating the facility's early role in international air travel.

After the disruptions of World War II, further expansions were undertaken in 1948, enabling the airport to handle increased post-war air traffic and laying the groundwork for its future as an international gateway.

On August 30, 1965, Sungai Besi ceased operations as a commercial airport and transitioned into a military base under the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

In 1982, the RMAF Museum was established at the base, showcasing Malaysia's aviation heritage and displaying historical aircraft such as the de Havilland Tiger Moth.

Despite its closure, Sungai Besi Airport continues to be remembered as a symbol of Malaysia's early strides in aviation and its adaptability to changing needs over the decades.