Buckle Up: The World’s Most Extreme Airport Runways
Are you ready to buckle up and take on the world’s most extreme runways?
When it comes to landing at these airports, nerves of steel and a seatbelt are a must. From mountainous peaks to floating islands, these runways will leave you breathless. Join us as we take a look at 10 of the most extreme airport runways around the world.
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Lukla Airport in Nepal is more like a high-altitude ski-jump than an airstrip. With towering peaks ahead and a deep river valley below, landing here is a true test of skill and nerves. The short, downhill runway leaves little room for error, especially considering the altitude of 2846 meters.
In the Koh Chang Archipelago of Thailand, Koh Mai Si Island boasts a unique runway that stretches from shore-to-shore. Visitors to the upmarket Soneva Kiri Resort can now arrive directly from Bangkok on an eight-seater aircraft, experiencing a short and sharp pull-up upon landing on the island’s curious tonsure.
Immerse yourself in paradise at the Cocos Islands Airport in the Indian Ocean. Here, the runway doubles as a golf course, with locals teeing off weekly. However, the island’s tranquil atmosphere may soon change, as plans are underway to turn the airport into a forward-operating base for surveillance aircraft.
Gisborne Airport in New Zealand is no stranger to the unexpected. While occasional cows and chickens may cross the runway, the real surprise comes in the form of trains. The airport’s main runway intersects with the Palmerston North-Gisborne railway line, creating a unique challenge for pilots and train operators alike.
Step into the Arctic wonderland at Svalbard Airport in Longyearbyen, Norway. This northernmost airport in the world sits on permafrost and is surrounded by subpolar blizzards. With limited daylight and the restriction on aircraft usage, landing here is a true feat of navigation.
Experience the ongoing dispute between Great Britain and Spain at Gibraltar International Airport. Until recently, planes landing here had to navigate the busy Winston Churchill Avenue, which crossed the runway. However, a tunnel has replaced the road, ensuring a smoother landing for both pilots and commuters.
Feel the thrill at Princess Juliana International Airport in Saint Maarten, where planes fly just meters above beachgoers. This Dutch Caribbean airport provides daily excitement as wide-body passenger jets descend onto the abbreviated runway. It’s a must-see for adrenaline junkies and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Venture into the remote wilderness of Tasmania at Melaleuca Airstrip in Port Davey. Handbuilt by pioneer bushman Deny King, this runway is used by small charter planes to transport hikers, scientists, and tourists to the South West Wilderness. The history of King’s early runway can still be seen in the timber slats that remain.
Witness engineering marvel at Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan. This artificial island features two massive runways and the world’s longest air terminal building. Despite its high cost and vulnerability to earthquakes, the airport has stood strong since its opening in 1994.
Embark on an adventure at Courchevel Altiport in the French Alps. With its ski-jump-like runway and steep downhill gradient, this airport is known for its extreme landing conditions. Only specially-certified pilots are allowed to attempt landing here, making it a thrilling experience for those brave enough to try.
- Lukla Airport in Nepal launches aircraft into the Himalayan void
- Koh Mai Si Island in Thailand has a unique runway that goes from shore-to-shore
- Cocos Islands Airport in the Indian Ocean features a runway that doubles as a golf course
- Gisborne Airport in New Zealand has trains crossing its runway
- Svalbard Airport in Norway is the northernmost airport in the world
- Gibraltar International Airport in Gibraltar replaced a road with a tunnel for planes to land
- Princess Juliana International Airport in Saint Maarten has planes landing just meters away from beachgoers
- Melaleuca Airstrip in Tasmania was handbuilt in the wilderness by pioneer bushman Deny King
- Kansai International Airport in Japan is an artificial island with two huge runways
- Courchevel Altiport in France has a downhill gradient and is only for specially-certified pilots
Whether it’s navigating through the Himalayan peaks or descending onto a beach just meters away from sunbathers, these extreme airport runways offer a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience for travelers. Each airport has its own challenges and quirks, creating a sense of adventure that is hard to find elsewhere. So, are you ready to buckle up and take on the world’s most extreme runways?