Sayo Interchange Heliport

As the closure is unconfirmed, a specific reason cannot be provided. The heliport's classification as a non-public, emergency-only facility that does not have regular flight operations is the likely source of its mischaracterization as 'closed' in unofficial databases.

The site is a fully intact and maintained helicopter landing pad, clearly marked with an 'H', located adjacent to the Sayo Interchange toll plaza. Its current purpose is to serve as an on-demand emergency heliport, maintained in a state of readiness for activation by authorized agencies. It is not used for any commercial, private, or recreational aviation activities.

Sayo Interchange Heliport is not a conventional airport but a designated 'Emergency Off-site Landing Area' (場外離着陸場, Jōgai Richakuriku-jō) built into the Chūgoku Expressway infrastructure. These specialized heliports, managed by expressway operators like NEXCO, were established across Japan for rapid response. Its operations were exclusively for:
1. Disaster Response: Serving as a critical base for helicopters transporting personnel, medical teams, and relief supplies. It played a vital role during the catastrophic floods and landslides that struck the town of Sayo in August 2009 following Typhoon Etau, enabling rescue and evacuation efforts.
2. Medical Evacuation: Acting as a landing zone for 'Doctor Heli' air ambulances to provide rapid medical care and transport for victims of major traffic accidents on the expressway.
3. Official Use: Supporting operations for Hyogo Prefectural Police, fire departments, and other government agencies during emergencies or major incidents.

The concept of 'reopening' is not applicable, as the facility has not been officially decommissioned. It continues to fulfill its original, intended role as an emergency landing site. There are no plans to change its status or open it for public or commercial use.