Seymour Island Airfield

Not applicable, as the airport was never closed. It has been in continuous operation since its conversion to a civilian airport after World War II.

The site is the location of the fully operational Seymour Airport (IATA: GPS, ICAO: SEGS), also known as Baltra Airport. In 2012, a new terminal was inaugurated, and the airport was rebranded as 'Aeropuerto Ecológico Galápagos' (Galapagos Ecological Airport). It is renowned for being the world's first airport built entirely with green building principles and materials, running primarily on solar and wind power. It serves as the main point of entry for tourists visiting the Galápagos National Park, handling numerous daily flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito and Guayaquil).

The airfield has significant historical importance. It was originally constructed by the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, officially opening in 1942. Known as 'Beta Base' or 'Seymour Island Airfield,' its primary mission was to host patrol bombers (like the B-24 Liberator) to protect the western approach to the Panama Canal from enemy naval threats, particularly submarines. It was a key strategic asset in the Eastern Pacific. After the war, the US military presence ended, and the facility was turned over to the government of Ecuador in 1946. It was then repurposed for civilian aviation and became the primary air gateway to the Galápagos Islands, playing a pivotal role in the development of the region's tourism industry and supporting scientific research logistics.

Not applicable, as the airport is fully operational and is a critical piece of infrastructure for Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.