🇸🇬 Paya Lebar Air Base

Paya Lebar Air Base (IATA: QPG, ICAO: WSAP) is an active military airbase located in Paya Lebar, Singapore, operated by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and utilized by the United States Air Force (USAF).

Notable Features and History: Originally established as Singapore International Airport in 1955, it served as the nation's primary civilian aviation hub, replacing Kallang Airport. The airport played a crucial role in Singapore's early aviation history and notably hosted supersonic Concorde flights by British Airways and Singapore Airlines between 1979 and 1980. In 1980, civilian operations transitioned to the newly opened Changi Airport. The facility was subsequently converted into a military airbase in 1981 and officially renamed Paya Lebar Air Base. Since 1991, the 497th Combat Training Squadron of the U.S. Air Force has been permanently based at Paya Lebar, and the base serves as a strategic refueling and staging post for transiting U.S. aircraft, frequently accommodating VIP aircraft, including Air Force One. The base's motto is "Strength Through Readiness."

Type of Facility and Operations: Paya Lebar Air Base is a military airbase that houses RSAF flying squadrons equipped with aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules and F-15SG Strike Eagles. It provides operational and logistical support for military exercises and visiting foreign military aircraft.

Current Status: Paya Lebar Air Base is currently operational but is slated for decommissioning and relocation around 2030 (some sources indicate mid-2030s). RSAF assets are progressively being moved to expanded facilities at Tengah Air Base and Changi Air Base. Following its closure, the 800-hectare site is planned for redevelopment into a new town comprising housing, offices, factories, and green spaces, with potential preservation of heritage elements like the former runway.