Balabyne Airfield

The airfield's closure was a direct result of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Its location in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, a region of intense and ongoing military conflict, made any aviation operations impossible due to extreme safety and security risks. The closure was mandated by the nationwide suspension of civilian flights and the imposition of martial law.

The airfield is currently inactive and non-operational due to its proximity to the frontline of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The town of Balabyne remains under Ukrainian control, but the entire region is subject to frequent military attacks. The physical state of the airfield's infrastructure is unknown but likely degraded or damaged. The site is located within a military operational zone, and its current use, if any, is not publicly known and could potentially involve military activities.

Balabyne Airfield served as a sports and general aviation aerodrome. It was the primary base for the 'Zaporizhzhia Aviation Sports Club named after V. Hryzodubova,' which is part of the Society for the Promotion of Defense of Ukraine (TСОУ), the successor to the Soviet DOSAAF organization. The airfield, featuring an unpaved runway, was actively used for pilot training on light aircraft (such as the An-2 and Yak-52), skydiving, and other recreational flying activities. It played a significant role in the local aviation community, training amateur pilots and parachutists for decades.

There are currently no known plans or prospects for reopening Balabyne Airfield. Any potential for reopening is entirely dependent on the conclusion of the war, the complete cessation of hostilities in the region, and subsequent demining and reconstruction efforts. The reopening of a small sports airfield would be a very low priority compared to the restoration of critical national infrastructure, such as the nearby Zaporizhzhia International Airport (UKDE). Its future is uncertain and contingent on the post-war security and economic situation in Ukraine.