It might sound unbelievable, but there indeed exist countries in the world that still don’t have airports. These nations have effectively demonstrated that possessing an airport isn’t always a requirement and have mastered the art of resource sharing with their neighbouring countries. However, for many of them, the absence of an airport is not a matter of choice, as their geographical constraints simply do not allow for one.
In this article, we explore these unique countries that do not have any airports even today. Read on to know why.
1.SAN MARINO.
- Situated in close proximity to the Vatican City, (SAN MARINO) holds the distinction of being one of the world’s oldest states. Surrounded by Italy, San Marino lacks access to the sea, and because of its small size, it does not possess an
airport. - Fortunately, San Marino’s relatively flat terrain is crisscrossed by an extensive road network, facilitating the movement of people out of the country and providing access to various parts of Italy in all directions.
- One of the nearest airports is located in Rimini, Italy. Although this place is relatively small, it serves as a vital transportation hub for both locals and tourists visiting San Marino.
- Additionally, travellers have access to a range of other nearby airports, including those in Bologna, Florence, Venice, and Pisa, which are frequently used for reaching the country.
2.VATICAN CITY.
- It’s the world’s tiniest nation, and has a population of approximately 800 residents.
- The compact size of the country offers minimal space for aircraft landings, whereas there are no rivers or bodies of water to facilitate alternative transportation.
- In fact, it is one of the rare nations that can be entirely traversed on foot. Nevertheless, there’s no need for concern, as there are neighbouring airports, including Fiumicino and Ciampino, which can be reached in under 30 minutes by train.
3.ANDORRA.
- Although not as compact as some other nations, the Principality of Andorra possesses a more substantial land area. However, the geographical challenge it faces is the presence of mountains.
- This co-principality is situated between France and Spain, entirely encircled by the Pyrenees mountain range, featuring peaks that reach nearly 3000 m in height. Operating aircraft at such high altitudes becomes risky and complex, prompting Andorra’s decision to forgo having its own airport. Instead, travellers can opt for flights to nearby cities like Lérida, Barcelona , or Girona, all situated within a 200 km radius.
4.MONACO.
- Monaco, the world’s second smallest nation following Vatican City, which is encircled by France on three of its sides and does not possess an independent airport.
- Travellers seeking to experience Monaco must arrange for a taxi or board a boat following their arrival at France’s Nice Côte d’Azur Airport.
4.LIECHTENSTEIN.
- This is yet another location that is characterised by rolling hills and gentle slopes. Liechtenstein is another small nation, with a perimeter of just under 75 km. Due to space constraints, even if Liechtenstein had desired to establish an airport, it would likely have to encroach on the territory partially crossing over the Rhine River to the east and nearing the Austrian mountains in the west.
- In order to avoid any potential diplomatic conflicts with neighbouring countries, Liechtenstein opted to forgo the airport option. As such, people here rely on cars or buses to access Zürich Airport, which is situated approximately 120 km away.
