Sterparone Airfield

The primary reason for closure was the end of World War II and the subsequent demobilization of Allied forces in Europe. As a temporary military airfield built specifically for the strategic bombing campaign, it had no post-war military or civilian purpose. Control was returned to the Italian government, and the land was eventually repurposed for agriculture.

The site has been almost entirely returned to agricultural use. The ghostly outlines of the main runway, perimeter tracks, and aircraft dispersal hardstands are still clearly visible in satellite imagery, but the land is actively farmed. A significant portion of the former airfield is now occupied by a large photovoltaic power plant (solar farm), the Enel Green Power 'Sterparone' solar park. There are no original buildings or significant aviation infrastructure remaining.

Sterparone Airfield was a major World War II heavy bomber airfield, part of the strategic Foggia Airfield Complex. Built by the US Army Corps of Engineers in late 1943, it became operational in early 1944. It was primarily used by the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) Fifteenth Air Force. The main operational unit based at Sterparone was the 461st Bombardment Group (Heavy), which flew B-24 Liberator bombers. From this base, the 461st conducted long-range strategic bombing missions against critical enemy targets, including oil refineries, marshalling yards, and aircraft factories in Italy, Germany, Austria, France, Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Yugoslavia, playing a crucial role in the Allied air campaign.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening Sterparone Airfield. The site's infrastructure was dismantled decades ago, and the land has been repurposed for agriculture and renewable energy production. Its historical role as a heavy bomber base is obsolete, and regional aviation needs are met by other airports, such as Foggia 'Gino Lisa' Airport (LIRF).