Horodnia Air Base

Military restructuring and economic factors following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. After Ukraine gained independence in 1991, its armed forces underwent a massive downsizing. The demand for new military pilots decreased significantly, making large training airfields like Horodnia redundant. The specific unit at the base, the 703rd Training Aviation Regiment, was disbanded in 1995, leading to the closure of the air base as an active military installation.

The air base is completely abandoned and in a state of advanced decay. Satellite imagery and ground reports confirm that the runway, taxiways, and aircraft dispersal pads are still visible but are severely cracked, weathered, and overgrown with vegetation. Most of the administrative buildings, hangars, and barracks are in ruins, with many having been dismantled for materials by locals over the years. The site is not used for any aviation purposes and is effectively a derelict military brownfield. There is no security, and the area is freely accessible, though caution is advised due to the dilapidated structures. Note: The ICAO code 'UA-8322' is a non-standard national or database-specific identifier, not an official ICAO code, reflecting its closed and unofficial status.

Horodnia Air Base was a key military installation for the Soviet Air Force, serving as a major training airfield. Its primary role was to host the 703rd Training Aviation Regiment (703 UAP), which was an integral part of the Chernihiv Higher Military Aviation School of Pilots. From the 1970s until its closure, the base was primarily used for the flight training of cadets on the Aero L-39 Albatros jet trainer aircraft. Thousands of pilots for the Soviet Union and other Warsaw Pact countries completed part of their training at this base, making it a significant site in the history of Soviet military aviation.

There are no known plans or credible prospects for reopening Horodnia Air Base. The cost to restore the extensive infrastructure (runway, taxiways, navigation systems, buildings) to operational standards would be prohibitive. Furthermore, the base has no strategic value for the modern Ukrainian Air Force, which operates from a smaller number of consolidated bases. The ongoing military conflict in Ukraine, particularly its proximity to the borders with Russia and Belarus, makes any investment in reopening the site highly improbable.