Barriers would lower, and cars, cyclists, and pedestrians waited as aircraft taxied across the tarmac. It wasn’t uncommon for delays to happen up to 15 times a day.
Gibraltar is one of the smallest territories in the world, with just 6.8 square kilometers of space.
So with land in short supply, the airport’s runway was built alongside the city’s busiest road.
The airport, previously known as North Front Airport, is operated by the Royal Air Force but also serves commercial flights for locals and tourists.
Despite its small size, the airport has become an attraction in its own right.
Its website even describes the runway-road combo as “one of the many unusual tourist attractions of Gibraltar.”
Tourists have long been allowed to walk across the runway, with many stopping for selfies. But warning signs remind visitors to stay alert: “You are now passing through an active runway.
“Throwing objects could cause a fatal incident. Remember, one day you might be on that plane.”
In March 2023, a new bypass Kingsway Tunnel opened, finally separating road traffic from the runway.
Private vehicles now use the tunnel, while a second tunnel was built for pedestrians and cyclists. Those on foot, however, can still choose to cross the runway itself.
The changes have eased congestion and reduced delays, but the airport’s weird reputation remains.
