Teggiano-Vallo di Diano Airfield

The closure was not due to economic reasons or an accident, but was the result of legal action. The facility was seized by the Carabinieri (Italian military police) under the direction of the Public Prosecutor's Office of Lagonegro. The official reason cited was 'lottizzazione abusiva' (illegal land development/subdivision) and the operation of the airfield without the required final permits, certifications, and safety authorizations. Essentially, it was shut down for major regulatory and legal non-compliance.

The site is currently abandoned and in a state of significant decay. The runway, though structurally intact, is overgrown with grass and weeds. Large white 'X' markings have been painted at the runway thresholds, which is the universal aviation signal for a permanently closed runway. The hangars and small terminal building are still standing but are derelict and unused. The entire property is fenced off and inaccessible, remaining under legal seizure.

The Teggiano-Vallo di Diano Airfield, known in Italian as 'Aviosuperficie di Teggiano', was constructed using significant public funds (both regional and European) with the goal of creating a strategic infrastructure asset for the Vallo di Diano region. This area is somewhat isolated, and the airfield was intended to boost the local economy and tourism. When operational, it catered to general aviation, including private light aircraft, ultralights, and a flight school. It was seen as a key access point for tourists wishing to visit the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site). It was also envisioned as a potential base for civil protection services, such as air ambulances and firefighting aircraft. The airfield never handled scheduled commercial or passenger airline traffic.

There have been continuous and vocal discussions about reopening the airfield since its closure. Local politicians, tourism operators, and business associations frequently call for its restoration, highlighting its potential to create jobs, stimulate tourism, and serve as a vital hub for emergency services. Several proposals and expressions of interest have been made over the years to take over management and invest in its refurbishment. However, as of early 2024, no concrete, funded plan has been officially approved and put into action. Significant bureaucratic and legal hurdles stemming from the 2015 seizure must be fully resolved before any physical work to reopen the facility can commence. The prospect of reopening remains a recurring topic in local politics but lacks a definitive timeline.