🇧🇪 Koksijde Air Base

Koksijde Air Base (ICAO: EBFN) is a military airport operated by the Belgian Air Component, located 1 nautical mile (1.9 km) north-northwest of Veurne, Belgium. It is also available for private recreational aviation during weekends.

The air base has a rich history, dating back to 1915. It was used by the German Luftwaffe during World War II and was later handed over to the Belgian Air Force in 1946. Koksijde Air Base has historically been home to 40 Squadron, known for its Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. Initially, this involved Westland Sea King Mk.48 helicopters and Aérospatiale Alouette III helicopters. These were replaced by NH90 NFH helicopters starting in March 2012, with the NH-90NFH fully taking over SAR duties by March 2019. The base was featured in the popular TV show "Windkracht 10" and the movie "Windkracht 10: Koksijde Rescue". Notable features include two gateguard airframes: a Hawker Hunter F.4 and a Sikorsky S-58C, both ex-Belgian Air Force.

The aerodrome's ARP coordinates are 510525N 0023910E, and its elevation is 20 ft (6 m). It has two runways: 11/29 (2,678 m asphalt/concrete) and a portion of 02/20 (799 m concrete). Operational hours for SAR are H24, while other traffic operates from 07:30-16:30 (06:30-15:30) on holidays excluded, with additional activation possible without prior notice. Customs are available Monday-Friday from 09:00-17:00 (08:00-16:00) or on request with 2 hours prior notice. The aerodrome is military use only, and jet aircraft operations are not allowed.

*Sources researched: ops.skeyes.be, en.wikipedia.org, ch-aviation.com, sgkoksijde.be*