Sal'sk Airfield

The airfield's closure was a direct result of military downsizing and economic restructuring following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The primary military unit based at the airfield, the 704th Training Aviation Regiment, was disbanded in 1993, leading to the complete cessation of flight operations and the subsequent abandonment of the facility.

The airfield is currently abandoned and in a state of significant decay. Satellite imagery shows the runway, taxiways, and distinctive aircraft revetments are still intact but are cracked, weathered, and being reclaimed by vegetation. The site is not used for any official aviation activities. Some of the former administrative buildings and hangars appear to be partially demolished or repurposed for local non-aviation use, such as storage or small-scale industry. The large paved areas are sometimes used unofficially for local events, driving practice, or street racing.

Sal'sk Airfield was a significant Soviet Air Force training base. Its primary historical role was serving as the home base for the 704th Training Aviation Regiment (704 UAP), which was part of the prestigious Eisk Higher Military Aviation School for Pilots (EVVAUL). From its establishment until its closure, the airfield was dedicated to the primary and advanced training of military pilots. Cadets learned to fly on jet trainer aircraft, initially the Aero L-29 Delfin and later the Aero L-39 Albatros. The base played a crucial role in the Soviet military's pilot production pipeline for several decades.

There are no known official plans or credible prospects for reopening the Sal'sk airfield. The cost to restore the derelict runway, taxiways, and support infrastructure to modern operational standards would be prohibitive. Furthermore, the region is served by other active military airfields and the major civilian airport in Rostov-on-Don, making the reactivation of this specific site for either military or civil aviation purposes economically and strategically unviable.