Mangaldan Airfield

The primary closure reason was military decommissioning after WWII, as its strategic purpose was no longer required. The subsequent closure as a civilian airfield was driven by economic factors and urban encroachment. The town of Mangaldan expanded directly onto the airfield's grounds, making operations impractical and unsafe. The land was repurposed for more pressing residential, commercial, and public needs.

The site of the former Mangaldan Airfield has been completely redeveloped and is now an integrated part of the urban fabric of Mangaldan, Pangasinan. The main north-south runway's alignment is now occupied by a major thoroughfare, Arellano Street. The entire area is a densely populated zone with residential subdivisions, private homes, commercial buildings, and public infrastructure. Notably, the Mangaldan National High School campus is located on what was once part of the airfield. There are no visible remnants of the original runway, taxiways, or military structures.

Mangaldan Airfield holds significant historical importance as a major American combat airfield during the Philippines Campaign of World War II. It was hastily constructed by the US Army's 836th Engineer Aviation Battalion in January 1945, just days after the Allied landings at Lingayen Gulf. The airfield was a critical forward base for the US Fifth Air Force, providing direct air support for the liberation of Luzon. It hosted numerous notable units and aircraft, including:
- **Fighter Groups:** 35th Fighter Group (P-47 Thunderbolt, P-51 Mustang), 49th Fighter Group (P-38 Lightning).
- **Bombardment Groups:** 312th Bombardment Group (A-20 Havoc), 417th Bombardment Group (A-20 Havoc).
- **Night Fighter Squadrons:** 547th Night Fighter Squadron (P-61 Black Widow).
From this base, aircraft flew combat air patrols, strafing and bombing missions against Japanese positions, and provided crucial support to ground troops advancing on Manila and other key objectives. After the war, it was turned over to the Philippine government.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening Mangaldan Airfield. Reopening is considered impossible due to the extensive and permanent urban development that has completely replaced the airfield infrastructure. The land has been fully repurposed, and its value for residential and commercial use far outweighs any potential for aviation.