Operational

Gibraltar Airport

Gibraltar, Gibraltar

GIB LXGB

Airport Information

Country Gibraltar
Continent Europe
ICAO/IATA LXGB / GIB
Elevation 12 ft (4m)
Coordinates 36.1512, -5.3497

Current Weather

Current weather: Clear
23°C
Clear
June 21
01:00
Local Time
11.5
km/h ENE
10
km visibility
94%
humidity

Runways

Runway 09/27

ASP
Lighted
Length 6,000 ft (1829m)
Width 150 ft (46m)
Surface ASP
Status
Operational

Passenger Statistics

Latest (2022)
446,187
Year-over-Year
+70%
Peak Year
2017
Peak Passengers
571,184

About Gibraltar Airport

Gibraltar Airport, also known as North Front Airport, is a unique and fascinating airport located in the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. Situated at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, this airport is known for its challenging runway which intersects with a major road, Winston Churchill Avenue. The airport is one of the few in the world where road traffic must be stopped when aircraft take off and land.

Gibraltar Airport has a long and storied history, dating back to its construction in 1939 during World War II. The airport began as a military airfield and gradually opened up for civilian use after the war. Today, it serves as a bustling hub for both commercial and military flights, connecting Gibraltar to various destinations in the UK and mainland Europe.

One of the most striking features of Gibraltar Airport is its unconventional runway. The runway measures only 1,829 meters in length and is flanked by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Bay of Gibraltar on the other. This makes for a visually stunning approach for pilots and offers passengers breathtaking views of the surrounding water and coastline.

The airport's proximity to the sea also presents unique challenges for pilots, as wind conditions can be unpredictable and turbulence can be common. In addition, the short runway length requires pilots to use precise and skilled flying techniques to navigate the airport safely.

Despite its challenges, Gibraltar Airport is well-equipped to handle a variety of aircraft types, including commercial jets, military planes, and private aircraft. The airport has a modern terminal building with all the necessary amenities for travelers, including check-in counters, baggage claim areas, and duty-free shops.

In addition to its commercial operations, Gibraltar Airport is also used by the British Ministry of Defence for military purposes. The airport is home to RAF Gibraltar, a small Royal Air Force base that serves as a strategic outpost for military operations in the region.

Gibraltar Airport plays a crucial role in connecting Gibraltar to the rest of the world. The airport offers direct flights to various destinations in the UK, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham, as well as flights to Spain and other European countries. This makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking to visit Gibraltar for business or leisure purposes.

Overall, Gibraltar Airport is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its designers and operators. Despite its challenging runway and unique location, the airport has successfully served the needs of travelers for decades. With its stunning views, historical significance, and strategic importance, Gibraltar Airport remains a vital transportation hub for the region. Whether you are a tourist looking to explore the Rock of Gibraltar or a business traveler on a mission, Gibraltar Airport stands ready to welcome you to this fascinating corner of the world.