THE airportsAs crucial links in the global transportation network, have undergone significant evolution since their inception. Among the oldest operating airfields is College Park Airport in Maryland, USA, which began operations in 1909. This historic airport was the scene of the first flights of the airplane. United States Army and continues to operate today as a general aviation and training center. Another notable airport is Templehof in BerlinGermany, opened in 1923, it played a crucial role during World War II and the Berlin Blockade and is known for its rich aviation history.
These old airports contrast with the Daocheng Yading Airportthe highest in the world, located at 4,411 meters above sea level in China. Although College Park Airport and others, such as Hounslow Heath and College Station, have played a fundamental role in aviation developmentDaocheng Yading represents a modern extreme, distinguished by its impressive altitude and geographical features. Both types of airports, whether historical and iconic or modern and extreme, reflect the continuous progress and adaptation of aviation over time.
It is the highest airport in the world.
Daocheng Yading Airport, located in the Sichuan Province of Chinaholds the title of “the world’s highest airport” since its inauguration in 2013. Located at an altitude of 4,411 meters, this airport is distinguished by its unprecedented altitude.
Its construction, which began in April 2011 and was completed in September 2013, took place in the inhospitable region of theDaocheng CountyThe airport’s 4,200-meter-long runway can accommodate a large number of flights, while the 5,000-square-meter terminal stands out for its modern and functional design.
Inaugurated with a Air China’s inaugural flight which carried 118 passengers, the airport has proven to be a vital hub for the region. Its capacity to handle up to 280,000 passengers per year has transformed connectivity in the region, reducing the travel time between Daocheng and Chengdu to just one hour, instead of the two days previously required by road.
However, the record of Daocheng Yading Airport could be compromised due to the construction of the Nagchu Dagring Airport in a neighboring region of China. This new airport, under construction since 2015, is located at an altitude of 4,436 meters above sea level, which would surpass Daocheng Yading Airport in terms of altitude.
The most dangerous airports in the world
He Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport in Saba, Caribbeanwas built on a small peninsula and its 400-meter runway ends abruptly in a mountain at one end and in the sea at the other. The short length of the runway and the lack of maneuvering space make this airport one of the most dangerous in the world.
Another airport that challenges pilots is Paro International Airport, Bhutan. Located at an altitude of 2,234 meters in a deep valley, the two-kilometer route is complicated by the surrounding mountainous terrain and variable weather conditions. Only very experienced pilots are allowed to land at this airport.
He Toncontin International Airport in Tegucigalpa, Hondurasis another one that is on the list of the most dangerous airports. Located at an altitude of 1,000 meters, this airport is surrounded by imposing mountains, which requires a particularly steep landing. Despite recent improvements to the runway, it remains a major challenge for pilots.
In Courchevel, FranceThe airport located in a ski area is known for its short and steep runway. At 2,000 meters above sea level, the runway of just over 500 meters presents significant challenges due to its inclination and its adaptation to the mountainous terrain.
He Princess Juliana Airport in Saint-Martin It is known for its extreme proximity to Maho Beach. The two-kilometer runway is located on the seashore, with the ocean at one end and a mountainous area at the other. Planes landing or taking off pass just a few meters from bathers on the beach, creating an impressive but dangerous spectacle due to the gusts of air generated by the planes’ engines.
Finally, the Congonhas Airport in São Paulo, Brazilalso represents a notable challenge. Located in a densely populated area of the city, the airport is surrounded by many high-rise buildings. Although the runway has been expanded, it remains one of the main facilities for domestic flights. The proximity of urban structures and the density of air traffic contribute to the difficulty of operating this airport.
