Al Ghuwaifat, AE 🇦🇪 Closed Airport
AE-0008
-
161 ft
AE-AZ
Loading...
Loading...GPS Code: Not available
Local Code: Not available
Location: 24.128339° N, 51.616767° E
Continent: AS
Type: Closed Airport
Loading weather data...
The exact closure date is not publicly documented. However, the helipad was likely decommissioned and removed during the major redevelopment and expansion of the Al Ghuwaifat border post, a project that was largely completed around 2017-2018. Aviation databases now list the ICAO code AE-0008 as permanently closed.
The closure was a direct result of infrastructure redevelopment. The comprehensive modernization of the Al Ghuwaifat land border crossing into a larger, more advanced facility necessitated the removal of the old helipad to make way for new buildings, expanded customs inspection lanes, and other support structures. The closure was for logistical and modernization purposes, not due to an accident, military conversion, or economic failure.
The site of the former helipad has been completely redeveloped and is now an integral part of the modern, expanded Al Ghuwaifat Port of Entry. The coordinates point to a location within the new, sprawling border complex. Satellite imagery shows the area is now occupied by buildings, roadways, and vehicle processing facilities. The original helipad and its markings no longer physically exist.
The helipad's significance was purely functional and administrative, serving the Ghuwaifat Customs Post. It was not a public airport but a private government facility. Its operations were limited to helicopters and would have primarily supported the border crossing's activities, including:
- Medical evacuations (medevac) for accidents or medical emergencies at the remote border location.
- Rapid transport of high-ranking government officials, security personnel, or VIPs to and from the post.
- Logistical support for border security, surveillance, and patrol operations in the surrounding desert area.
- Emergency response and transport of critical supplies or personnel.
There are zero prospects for reopening the helipad under the ICAO designation AE-0008. The facility has been physically demolished and the land it occupied has been repurposed. While the modern border complex may have new, designated landing zones for helicopter use in case of emergencies or official business, they would not be related to the original, now-defunct AE-0008 helipad.
No comments for this airport yet.
Leave a comment