Merlo, AR 🇦🇷 Closed Airport
AR-0753
-
49 ft
AR-B
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Loading...GPS Code: Not available
Local Code: Not available
Location: -34.680283° N, -58.742658° E
Continent: SA
Type: Closed Airport
Keywords: SADR SADR MER
Travelers generally view Aeropuerto Internacional Valle del Conlara (RLO) in Merlo, Argentina, with positive sentiment, highlighting its modern infrastructure and efficient operations for its size. Despite being a smaller regional airport, it is appreciated for its increasing connectivity and key amenities.
In summary, Aeropuerto Internacional Valle del Conlara (RLO) is a well-regarded regional airport providing essential services and growing connectivity to Merlo, Argentina. Its strengths lie in operational efficiency and modern basic facilities, though travelers may find dining and lounge options somewhat restricted.
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| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
16/34 |
3445 ft | 131 ft | GRE | Active |
18/36 |
2297 ft | 164 ft | GRE | Active |
7/25 |
2789 ft | 164 ft | GRE | Active |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|
Circa 1952. The civil aerodrome was officially closed to public use upon its transfer to the Argentine Air Force and the establishment of the VII Air Brigade on the site.
Military Conversion. The site was selected by the Argentine Air Force (Fuerza AĂ©rea Argentina - FAA) to establish a new military air base. The existing civil aerodrome was expropriated and repurposed for military use, becoming the Base AĂ©rea Militar (BAM) Merlo.
The site is an active and crucial military installation. It is the home of the VII Air Brigade (VII Brigada AĂ©rea) of the Argentine Air Force. The base, now known as Base AĂ©rea Militar Merlo (ICAO: SADM), is the primary helicopter base for the FAA. It operates various helicopter squadrons (such as those with Bell 212/412 and Hughes 500 aircraft) and is central to search and rescue (SAR) operations, troop transport, liaison duties, and support for Argentina's Antarctic campaigns. The original civil airport no longer exists; it has been fully integrated and developed into this military facility.
Prior to its military conversion, the AerĂłdromo de Merlo was a civil airfield serving the western Greater Buenos Aires area. It primarily handled general aviation, including private aircraft, flight training operations from local aeroclubs, and recreational flying. Its historical significance lies in its role as a local aviation hub before being transformed into one of the most important helicopter bases for the Argentine Air Force.
None. There are no plans or prospects for reopening the site as a civil airport. It is a strategic, active military air base and a core component of the Argentine Air Force's operational structure. Its function as a military installation precludes any return to civil aviation use.