The world’s smallest commercial airport is on the Dutch Caribbean island of Saba, where planes land on a runway not much longer than an aircraft carrier.
Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is perched on the island’s only flat area and has a runway just 1,300 feet (396m) long – only 900 feet (274m) of which is usable.
For comparison, the world’s current longest plane, the Boeing 747-8I, measures 250 feet (76m).
It is surrounded by steep cliffs and ends in a sheer drop into the sea, making it one of the most difficult airports for pilots to land at.
Only specially trained pilots flying small propeller planes, like the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, are allowed to land there. These planes usually carry between 18 and 20 passengers.
Pilots need specific training and waivers from the Netherlands Antilles Civil Aviation Authority to make the approach.
Captain Roger Hodge, who is a very experienced pilot, described the thrill of landing at the airport. “Flying into Saba gets kind of hairy sometimes, but by knowing what to do, we make it look simple and calm,” he told CNN.
He added: “There’s always adrenaline that kicks in because you’re being watched by passengers and people on the ground.”
Despite its size, Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is a lifeline for the island. It brings in tourists and transports locals in need of medical care.
Its runway has even become a symbol of pride for Saba residents, appearing on postage stamps and T-shirts with the slogan “I survived the Saba landing”.
The airport opened in 1959, following years of political debate over the island’s need for an airstrip.
After its inaugural flight by Remy de Haenen, the Dutch government allocated funds for proper construction, which was completed in 1963.
The airport was later renamed in honour of de Haenen, with one of the propellers from his first flight now on display.
In good news for those who are terrified of flying, there is also a ferry that goes to the island.
For pilots, however, landing at Saba is a badge of honour. “Once a guy has been fully trained and we’re satisfied, we radio into operations that another top gun is born,” Captain Hodge said.
