Madrid-Torrejón Airport, also known as Base Aérea de Torrejón, is a military base and former international airport located in the town of Torrejón de Ardoz, near Madrid, Spain. Originally built in 1953, the airport was used as a commercial airport until 2013, when its operations were transferred to Madrid-Barajas Airport. Today, Madrid-Torrejón Airport serves as a military air base for the Spanish Air Force, as well as a training center for commercial pilots and a hub for general aviation.

The history of Madrid-Torrejón Airport dates back to the early 1950s, when the Spanish Air Force decided to construct a new military base in the Madrid region. The airport was officially opened in 1953 and quickly became a key transport hub for both military and civilian flights. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the airport saw a significant increase in passenger traffic, as more airlines began operating international flights to and from the facility.

In the 1980s, Madrid-Torrejón Airport underwent a series of renovations and upgrades to accommodate larger aircraft and increased passenger volumes. The airport's terminal building was expanded, new taxiways and runways were constructed, and modern navigation equipment was installed to improve safety and efficiency. By the end of the decade, Madrid-Torrejón Airport had become one of the busiest airports in Spain, handling hundreds of thousands of passengers each year.

However, in the early 2000s, Madrid-Torrejón Airport began to experience a decline in passenger traffic, as more airlines began operating flights out of Madrid-Barajas Airport, the city's main international airport. In 2013, the decision was made to transfer all commercial flights from Madrid-Torrejón Airport to Madrid-Barajas Airport, effectively ending its role as a commercial airport. Since then, Madrid-Torrejón Airport has primarily served as a military base for the Spanish Air Force, as well as a training center for commercial pilots and a hub for general aviation.

Despite the change in its operational status, Madrid-Torrejón Airport continues to play a vital role in Spain's aviation industry. The airport is home to the 12th Group of the Spanish Air Force, which operates a fleet of F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets and Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. In addition, Madrid-Torrejón Airport is used for military training exercises, air shows, and other aviation-related events.

In recent years, Madrid-Torrejón Airport has also become a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts and plane spotters. The airport's close proximity to Madrid-Barajas Airport and its active military operations make it an ideal spot for observing a wide variety of aircraft, from commercial airliners to military fighter jets. The airport's unique history and strategic importance make it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in aviation and military history.

In conclusion, Madrid-Torrejón Airport is a historic and important aviation facility in Spain. From its humble beginnings as a military base in the 1950s to its role as a commercial airport in the 1980s and 1990s, the airport has played a key role in the development of Spain's aviation industry. Today, Madrid-Torrejón Airport continues to serve as a military base and training center, while also attracting aviation enthusiasts from around the world. With its rich history and unique location, Madrid-Torrejón Airport is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation and military history.