Flying is one of the safest means of traveling. In fact, it is safer than road transportation. If you are lucky, you can have an amazing experience at Singapore Changi Airport, the best one in the world. However, there will be times when you will be praying for your life and you will closely listen to the instructions of the flight attendant with full attention. In fact, there are some of the most dangerous airports in the world which give you goosebumps. Are you up for some adrenaline rush on your flight?
Top 5 Most Dangerous Airports in the World
Lukla Airport, Nepal
It is also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport and is ranked as the world’s most dangerous airport. If you are planning your next expedition to Mt. Everest, you have to go land safely at Lukla. Located between mountains and with a short runway of 527 meters and unpredictable weather, only experienced pilots can make it safely on or off the ground.
Madeira Airport, Portugal
Madeira Airport, also known as Funchal Airport, is an international airport located on the Portuguese island of Madeira. It is known for its challenging runway, which is built on stilts and extends over the ocean, making it one of the most unique airport approaches in the world. The airport was recently renamed Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in honor of the famous Portuguese soccer player. Madeira Airport is an important hub for tourism on the island, with flights connecting to destinations throughout Europe and beyond.
The airport is located on a cliff by the sea and the runway is narrow. The extreme crosswinds render it difficult for novice pilots to land the plane. The original runway was extended by installing 180 columns into the ocean.
Courchevel International Airport, France
Courchevel International Airport is a small airport located in the French Alps, serving the Courchevel ski resort. It is considered one of the most challenging and dangerous airports in the world due to its short runway, steep gradient, and its location at an altitude of 2,008 meters. The airport has a single runway that is only 537 meters long and has a gradient of 18.5%, which requires skilled pilots and specialized aircraft to land safely. It is mainly used by private and charter planes, and during the winter ski season, it is a popular destination for wealthy skiers and celebrities.
Barra Airport, Scotland
Lying down on a beach may be a cool idea for a weekend getaway. But when it is to the runway, landing on the beach may not be a good idea. The airport is literally the beach, just five feet above sea level. High tides sometimes make the runway disappear.
McMurdo Air Station, Antarctica
All right, but why do we have an airport in Antarctica? Here, the runway is made of ice. This airport is certainly not for the weakhearted. The pilots have to trust their instincts. During the night times, night vision devices are used for landing.
Are you daring enough to make it across all these most dangerous airports in the world? If that’s not enough, we have some more on the list. Narsarsuaq Airport (Greenland), Gisborne Airport (New Zealand), and Gibraltar International Airport are some other airports worth the risk.
