Most of the airport ratings are usually based on international standards, which include the facilities, runway, amenities, staff and other technological innovations. However, there are some small and mostly unexplored airports which are known for their extraordinary location and the scenic beauty. Let's read about some of the most attractive airports in the world.
Demand forecast
Donegal Airport is located at Carrickfinn, on the top North-Western corner of Ireland. The airport is situated on the west coast and is not much far from Dungloe and Gweedore. The airport has been named as one of the most scenic airports in the world due to its stunning natural scenery and the maritime environment. Carrickfinn is within a Gaeltacht region and most of the people speak native Irish. The main industry of the region is fishing and over a period of time, this place has become more popular among the tourists.
The airport is significant for the region because it provides a support base for the offshore oil and gas industry for several major oil companies. The airport's strategic location supports air services for offshore operations of the West and North West coasts of Ireland. Landing and take-off at this airport are truly spectacular, according to the visitors. According to a traveller's review, "The runway is a slim strip of land, with an inlet of water on one side and the North Atlantic stretching out on the other."
Demand forecast
This airport is a tiny Scottish airport at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. An average of 8500 passengers per year use the airport, and there are more than 1,400 aircraft movements (landings or takeoffs) per year. The airport is technologically advanced and maintains good safety rules. The airport staff has to ensure that stranded dolphins or seals on TraighMhor are taken care of which makes it definitely much different from other airports in the world.
The airport is operated by Highlands and Islands Airport Limited (HIAL). The airport building is modern and friendly. The view from the airport is stunning.
Nice Cote d'Azur International Airport, France
Nice CÔte d'Azur International Airport is located on the waterfront on the French Riviera between Cannes and Nice. The location makes it panoramic. The airport is the third busiest airport in France and last year there were more than 13 million passengers using the airport. EasyJet has its base at this airport, and there are several flights operating from this airport. The airport is close to the main city and also offers helicopter services to Monaco, Cannes and Saint Tropez.
Queenstown Airport, New Zealand
Queenstown Airport is another airport which topped the list of most scenic runways in the world. The landing at the airport is truly magnificent as the region is blessed with natural beauty.
Saint Martin - Princess Juliana International Airport
Saint Martin airport located on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin is (in)famous for its dramatic runway. The runway is just 2,180 metres long and begins immediately after Maho Beach. Landing at the airport is quite spectacular because of the runway length. The aircraft has to steer a course for the runway no more than 10 metres above the heads of the people at the beach. Taking off is also quite a challenge for the tourists because the aircraft appears to be almost touching their heads.
Gibraltar Airport, Spain
The airport is located at the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula. Gibraltar Airport is different and one of its kind because the airport's runway crosses the town's only road link to mainland Spain, Winston Churchill Avenue. When an aircraft is landing or taking off, the road has to be closed on the Rock. Can you imagine each time you are driving past such a crossing? The landing and takeoff at this airport are enjoyable and picturesque.
Most people do not plan travels based on airports. However, these airports have created an interest in the location among the travellers due to their amazing view. These airports have become endorsements for the regions where they are located. Aviation plays an important role in supporting tourism and these airports being naturally aesthetic play a crucial role in attracting visitors.
