Cobanbeyli Border Crossing Helipad

Change in military operational requirements. The helipad was a temporary, forward-use facility established to support the high tempo of military and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations during the Syrian Civil War. With the stabilization of the front lines in Northern Syria, the acute need for a dedicated helipad directly at the border crossing diminished. Helicopter logistics were likely consolidated at larger, more permanent military bases further inside Turkey.

The specific ICAO designation TR-0120 is inactive. However, the physical site is part of the larger, highly active, and heavily secured Çobanbey (Al-Rai) Border Crossing complex. This complex remains a primary land route for commercial trade and humanitarian aid flowing into Northern Syria, and it continues to serve as a major logistical and support base for the Turkish military presence in the region. While the designated helipad is not in regular operational use, the area maintains the capability to handle helicopter landings for military or emergency purposes as needed.

The Cobanbeyli Border Crossing Helipad was of critical strategic importance during the height of Turkish military involvement in Northern Syria, particularly during Operation Euphrates Shield (2016-2017). It served as a primary forward logistics and MEDEVAC point for the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) and allied Syrian National Army (SNA) factions. Its main functions included the rapid deployment of special forces, the transport of high-value personnel, and, most importantly, the life-saving evacuation of wounded soldiers from the Syrian battlefield to Turkish medical facilities. It was a vital link in the logistical chain supporting operations against ISIS and other groups in the region.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the helipad for public, commercial, or regular civilian use. Its status is entirely dependent on the regional security situation. As a military-strategic asset, it can be reactivated by the Turkish Armed Forces at a moment's notice should a tactical need for forward helicopter operations or a large-scale humanitarian emergency arise.