Was it just me who saw a plane doing loops? Herzliya Airport awaits. It is more than just a place for takeoffs and landings. Herzliya Airport holds a special place in Israeli aviation history.
Herzliya Airport is located in the heart of Herzliya. It mainly serves flight schools and general aviation. Herzliya Airport does not have any terminals. This might surprise you.
Let’s step back to 1948. During the Arab-Israeli War, Herzliya Airport played a vital role. A makeshift strip became the main base for the Israeli Air Force’s 101 Squadron. This squadron was known as the “First Fighter” Squadron. The squadron operated from Herzliya between June and October 1948. Before this, un-assembled planes were attacked on the ground. This happened on May 30.
Herzliya was chosen because it was away from the front lines. Also, its existence was not well-known. The airfield was built quickly after hostilities began. It was cleverly hidden among the orange orchards. It didn’t appear on any maps. During those early days, the squadron faced immense challenges. They had few planes against Arab air supremacy. To protect the aircraft, they were dispersed among the orange trees.
Rainy conditions made the strip unsuitable. The clandestine status was likely to be compromised. Front lines shifted making former British bases safer. Air superiority shifted toward the Israelis. The squadron moved to Hatzor Airbase in October.
Herzliya Airport continued to evolve. In May 1978, responsibility shifted. It went from the Civil Aviation Administration to the Israel Airports Authority. A new safety system was installed in early 2008.
There were plans to expand the airfield. The Israel Airports Authority wanted to expand it southward. This would have added 10 hectares. However, this plan was rejected. Former Herzliya Mayor Yael German had a different vision. She wanted the airport shut down completely. She argued it endangered local residents. She suggested redeveloping the land for housing.
The airport was scheduled to close in April 2015. However, it received a six-month extension. Haifa Airport was considered as a replacement. Herzliya was designated a temporary landing strip. The government needed to make a final decision.
In December 2015, a decision was made. The airport would be replaced by new residential and industrial space. In May 2023, runway names were updated. They changed from 29/11 to 28/10. This was due to the yearly change in magnetic variation.
Today, Herzliya Airport is classified as A1. This is according to ICAO standards. It’s one of the few airfields in Israel used for pilot training. There are no scheduled flights. But you can book private flights. These are available through various aviation companies. You can take flying courses and use flight simulators. You can study aviation theory. You can book private flights on weekends. You can even rent airplanes and helicopters for pleasure flights. Aerial photography and air taxi services are also available.
Herzliya Airport stands as a testament to Israel’s aviation journey. It is a place where history and progress intersect.