UNFICYP OP135 Heliport

The heliport was not a standalone facility but an integral part of UNFICYP Observation Post 135. Its closure was a direct result of the military and operational restructuring of the UN mission. The primary reasons include:

1. **Force Consolidation:** UNFICYP reduced the number of its static observation posts along the Buffer Zone to create a more mobile and flexible force. Operations were centralized at larger sector headquarters.
2. **Changing Operational Needs:** With improved ground mobility and a relatively stable situation along the Green Line, the need for dedicated helicopter support at numerous small outposts decreased.
3. **Cost-Effectiveness:** Maintaining and supplying a large number of isolated posts, including their helipads, is resource-intensive. Consolidation led to significant operational and logistical efficiencies.

The site of Observation Post 135, including the former helipad area, remains under the control of UNFICYP. Satellite imagery confirms the location as a UN position within the Buffer Zone. The distinct circular clearing for the helipad is still visible next to the main compound and observation tower. However, the post is no longer permanently manned in the same way it was historically. It now functions as a patrol base or a reference point for mobile UN patrols operating in the area. The helipad itself is disused and not maintained for regular flight operations, though it could likely be used for an emergency landing if required.

The UNFICYP OP135 Heliport was a small, likely unpaved, tactical helipad. Its significance was purely military and logistical, tied directly to the peacekeeping mission. When active, it handled operations critical to the functioning of Observation Post 135 and the surveillance of this sector of the UN Buffer Zone.

Operations included:
- **Patrol and Observation:** Serving as a launch and recovery point for light observation helicopters (e.g., Bell Gazelle, Hughes 500) used to monitor the Buffer Zone for ceasefire violations.
- **Logistics and Resupply:** Facilitating the transport of personnel, mail, food, water, and essential equipment to the relatively isolated OP.
- **Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC):** Providing a designated landing zone for the rapid evacuation of sick or injured peacekeepers.
- **Command and Control:** Allowing for the rapid deployment of commanders or liaison officers to the post.

The heliport was a vital link, ensuring the post remained effective and its personnel could be supported or extracted quickly in an emergency.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the OP135 Heliport as a formal, regularly used facility. The strategic shift by UNFICYP towards a mobile patrol concept is considered permanent. Helicopter support for the mission is now centralized at larger bases, such as the one at the disused Nicosia International Airport, which serves as UNFICYP headquarters. Re-establishing a network of small, dedicated helipads like this one would only be considered in the event of a significant deterioration of the security situation in Cyprus, which is not anticipated.