Airpark

Air parks are multi-purpose civilian airfields typically equipped with small runways designed for light aircraft, training aircraft, and recreational aviation activities. These parks host educational flights, model airplane demonstrations, paragliding, glider and hang gliding like sporting events, and house serve as alternatives to commercial airports by supporting local and amateur aviation.

In recent years, as interest in aviation has grown, air parks have begun to gain importance in Türkiye. These facilities provide multifaceted contributions in areas such as education, recreational aviation, and local development, while also facilitating young people’s introduction to aviation.

Development of Air Parks in Türkiye

The development of air parks in Türkiye has accelerated alongside the growing popularity of aviation and the rise in recreational aviation activities. Particularly since the 2010s, initiatives by individuals and organizations interested in aviation have led to the establishment and activity operation of various air parks. These parks attract attention through their dual use for education and recreation purposes.

Role in Education

Air parks play a significant role in practical education by enabling young people to become familiar with aviation. The Civil Aviation Authority, universities, and private flight schools organize training programs in these areas on topics such as piloting, model aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and aviation safety. The open and controlled environments provided by air parks create an effective platform for integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Recreational and Hobby Use

Air parks offer ideal spaces for recreational aviation activities. Many disciplines including hang gliding, glider flights, powered light aircraft, model aircraft displays, and balloon flights can be safely conducted in these areas. Additionally, amateur aviators gain flight experience and opportunities to test aircraft through these parks.

Contribution to Local Economy

Air parks directly stimulate the local economy by revitalizing tourism, accommodation, transportation, and service sectors in their regions. Visitors attracted by air shows, educational programs, and competitions increase the income of small businesses and local producers. Furthermore, by promoting youth employment and technical educational opportunities, they contribute to sustainable economic development.

Strategic Importance and Regional Needs

Air parks serve not only as facilities for sport or educational purposes but also as accessible alternative sites for emergency situations, natural disasters operations, and specialized aircraft. In mountainous and coastal regions such as the Mediterranean and Black Sea, these parks function as vital landing sites for fire-fighting aircraft, ambulance helicopters, and humanitarian aid aircraft. In inland Anatolia areas, geographic expanse, continental climate, and high agricultural activity necessitate transforming these spaces into both logistics and education-supported emergency response bases.

Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s Initiatives on Air Parks

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has launched the “Air Campus” project to promote recreational and amateur aviation. Under this project, special takeoff and landing areas are planned for aircraft weighing up to 5,700 kilograms capable of vertical or vertical takeoff and landing. These areas will provide operational flexibility distinct from existing airport procedures, particularly for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and light aircraft. The ministry has also issued guidelines outlining technical and administrative regulations for the establishment and operation of air parks. These regulations define criteria such as runway length, environmental obstructions, and security measures to ensure safe and active operation of air parks.