During World War II, the airfield was called RAF Mingaladon and served as an operating base for fighter aircraft such as: Additional units: There was also a Communication Flight of the Burma Volunteer Air Force equipped with de Havilland Tiger Moths and Westland Lysanders and anti-aircraft support for the airfield was provided by members of the 12th Burma Rifles.

During the Second World War, in 1941 the Japanese began their attack on Burma, including an air raid on Mingaladon.

The British at the Wireless Experimental Centre in Delhi had decrypted BULBUL, the IJA air-to-ground code, and could predict Japanese air raids.

On one occasion Allied nightfighters "got the lot and all night we could hear Mingaladon air base calling for its lost children".

[10] Designed by the Airport Development Division of CPG Corporation of Singapore, a new terminal was constructed at a cost of US$13.3 million by Asia World.

[15] In 2013, a contract worth $150 million was awarded to a consortium led by an affiliate of Asia World to construct a new domestic terminal and expansion of airport apron.

"[17] The building was designed by the CPG Corporation of Singapore and constructed by the Asia World Company costing US$13.3 million.

Stops on the return journey include Sule, Yangon Railway Station, Zoological Gardens, Bahan 3rd Street, Shwegondine, Lanni, Kaba-Aye Pagoda, Nawade, 8 Mile and the airport.