Kiel Heliport

The closure was due to economic reasons. The heliport's primary and almost exclusive user was the Antwerp MUG-heli (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service), a non-profit service run by the Institute for Medical Emergency Assistance (IMDH). The operation was terminated when its main private sponsor withdrew financial support, rendering the air ambulance service financially unsustainable. The closure was not related to military conversion, accidents, or regulatory action.

The site of the former heliport has been completely redeveloped and repurposed. The exact location is now occupied by a public park named 'Park 't Vlietje' and the parking lot for the 'd'Amandehof' event hall. There are no remaining traces, markings, or memorials of the former heliport.

Kiel Heliport's sole but vital role was serving as the dedicated base for the region's Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS). From July 1, 1996, to December 31, 2005, it was home to the 'MUG-heli', an EC135 helicopter with the callsign Christophorus 1. This operation, a collaboration with the Austrian automobile club ÖAMTC, was a pioneering HEMS initiative in Flanders, providing rapid deployment of a doctor and critical care equipment to accident scenes and for inter-hospital transfers. The heliport was a key piece of infrastructure for this life-saving service for nearly a decade.

There are no plans or prospects for reopening a heliport at this location. The land has been permanently converted to recreational and community use. Emergency and other helicopter services for the Antwerp area are now accommodated by facilities at Antwerp International Airport (EBAW/ANR) and dedicated helipads at major hospitals, making a revival of the Kiel site unnecessary and unfeasible.