Gibraltar Airport

Ever wondered about an airport where a main road intersects the runway? Welcome to Gibraltar International Airport. This unique airport, also known as North Front Airport, is situated in the heart of Gibraltar. It’s a vital transportation hub for both civilians and the military. Gibraltar Airport’s history traces back to 1939. It began as an emergency landing base for the British Navy during World War II. The airport has undergone significant transformations over the years. The original terminal, built in 1959, proved too small for the growing number of passengers. A new international terminal, designed by bblur architecture and 3D Reid, opened in September 2012. This modern terminal boasts a capacity of one million passengers annually. It features 16 check-in gates, a spacious departure lounge, and an arrival facility. The baggage handling system is divided into Spanish and Gibraltar sections. Two automatic and one manual X-ray screening systems ensure security. Gibraltar Airport has a single asphalt runway. This runway intersects Winston Churchill Avenue, requiring road closures during takeoffs and landings. A planned road tunnel under the runway aims to resolve this unusual intersection. As part of the airport expansion, a six-story car park with a capacity of 1,000 cars was built. Another parking facility is planned for the site of the demolished old terminal. Gibraltar Airport’s development has been marked by a territorial dispute between the UK and Spain. The 2006 tripartite agreement between Gibraltar, Spain, and the United Kingdom paved the way for joint use of the airport. This agreement facilitated development opportunities and eased some of the political tensions.