Masseria Modesti Airfield

The official reason for closure is not publicly documented. However, as Masseria Modesti was a small, privately-owned and operated airfield ('Campo di Volo' operated by Mr. Michele Modesti), the closure was almost certainly due to personal or economic reasons on the part of the owner. This likely involved a decision to cease the costly operation of an airfield, not renew the operating license with ENAC, and revert the land to its primary, more profitable agricultural purpose.

The site of the former airfield has been fully reclaimed for agriculture. High-resolution satellite imagery shows that the entire length of the former runway has been planted with rows of trees, consistent with an olive grove or vineyard, which are common in the region. The distinct outline of the runway is no longer visible. While the original hangar building may still stand on the property, all aviation-specific infrastructure, particularly the landing strip, has been permanently removed. The land is now part of the surrounding 'Masseria Modesti' farmstead.

The airfield held local significance for the general aviation community rather than major historical importance. It was classified as an 'Aviosuperficie' or 'Campo di Volo', serving primarily ultralight (VDS - Volo da Diporto o Sportivo) and light general aviation aircraft. Its operations included recreational flying, private aircraft storage, and potentially flight training for local enthusiasts. The facility consisted of a single grass runway, approximately 600 meters long and 20 meters wide, with orientation 10/28, and at least one hangar for aircraft storage. It provided a convenient access point for private pilots in the rural area north of Bari.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the airfield. The complete conversion of the runway area to permanent agriculture (an olive grove or vineyard) makes reopening extremely unlikely and financially unfeasible. Restoring the site for aviation use would require the costly removal of mature crops and a complete reconstruction of the runway and other facilities.