Highlands Seaplane Base

There is no single documented event (like an accident or military action) that led to the closure. The closure was most likely due to economic factors, which is common for small, privately-owned general aviation facilities. This can include the owner retiring, the business becoming unprofitable, rising insurance costs, or the sale of the valuable waterfront property for residential development.

The site of the former seaplane base is no longer used for aviation. The water landing area is simply part of the Shrewsbury River, used for general recreational boating. The associated land-based infrastructure (ramps, docks, offices, or hangars) has been removed. The shoreline in the vicinity of the former base is now occupied by high-end private residential homes, many with their own private docks.

Highlands Seaplane Base was a privately owned, private-use facility located on the Shrewsbury River. When active, it served the general aviation community of Monmouth County and the greater Jersey Shore area. Its operations likely included:
- Basing for privately-owned seaplanes.
- Air taxi and charter services, providing convenient access to other coastal locations, particularly New York City's seaplane bases.
- Flight instruction for pilots seeking a seaplane rating.
- Local sightseeing flights over the Jersey Shore, Sandy Hook, and the New York Harbor.
Its significance was primarily local, providing a unique transportation and recreational resource in an area with heavy marine traffic.

The prospects for reopening the Highlands Seaplane Base are virtually zero. The land has been completely redeveloped for expensive residential use, making the acquisition of property for commercial aviation purposes financially unfeasible. Furthermore, any attempt to re-establish an aviation facility in this densely populated and affluent residential area would likely face insurmountable community opposition due to concerns about noise, safety, and environmental impact. There are no known plans or proposals for its reopening.