Herat Airport

Herat Airport. It is a significant aviation facility serving the major western city of Herat in Afghanistan. The airport functions as a joint civil and military airfield, playing a crucial role in regional connectivity and logistics. Its operations are managed under the authority of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan following the Fall of Kabul (2021) and the subsequent withdrawal of international forces.

History

The airfield's origins trace back to strategic developments during the Cold War, with significant expansion occurring in the 1970s through cooperation between the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan and the Soviet Union. During the Soviet–Afghan War, it served as a major base for the Soviet Air Forces and the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan Air Force. Following the Battle of Herat (2001) and the start of the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021), the facility came under the control of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and hosted personnel from the International Security Assistance Force, including contingents from the Italian Army and the Spanish Armed Forces. The airport was a focal point during the 2021 Taliban offensive which culminated in the capture of Herat Province.

Facilities

The airport resides at an elevation of 3,256 feet (992 meters) above mean sea level. It features a single primary runway designated 18/36, which is 2,591 meters (8,500 feet) long and surfaced with asphalt. The passenger terminal provides basic amenities for travelers, while separate areas support military and cargo operations. The airfield's infrastructure has been subject to periodic upgrades, including projects supported by the United States Agency for International Development prior to the 2021 Taliban offensive. Navigational aids are installed to support instrument approaches.

Airlines and destinations

Scheduled commercial service has been historically variable, heavily influenced by the nation's security and political climate. Under the previous Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, airlines such as Ariana Afghan Airlines, the national flag carrier, and Kam Air provided connections to Kabul International Airport and other domestic points. Following the establishment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, a limited schedule of domestic flights has been maintained, primarily linking to Kandahar and Mazar-i-Sharif. International service has been sporadic, with past routes including destinations in Iran such as Mashhad and Tehran, served by carriers like Mahan Air.

Accidents and incidents

The airport has been the site of several notable aviation safety events. In 2005, a Kam Air flight, operating for Pamir Airways, crashed near the facility during a approach in poor weather, resulting in significant loss of life. The airfield has also been targeted during periods of conflict, including rocket attacks by insurgent groups like the Taliban prior to their 2021 takeover. During the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021), aircraft from the United States Air Force and NATO coalition partners experienced emergency situations in the vicinity.

See also

* List of airports in Afghanistan * Transport in Afghanistan * Herat International Airport (a planned separate project) * Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation (Afghanistan)

Category:Airports in Afghanistan Category:Herat Province Category:Buildings and structures in Herat Province