Turkey has spent millions of dollars to upgrade its military airport
The Turkish government allocated more than $120 million for a comprehensive renovation and modernization of the former Etimesgut military airport in Ankara to meet contemporary standards, in preparation for the NATO summit. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
Following eight months of extensive construction and modernization work, the strategic facility’s capabilities were significantly expanded. The primary goal of these efforts was to ensure the safe reception and servicing of the massive Boeing 747-8 aircraft provided by the State of Qatar to the United States, by creating the necessary conditions.
According to international publications, this aircraft, valued at approximately $400 million, is considered one of the largest passenger transport liners in the world. Its length exceeds 76 meters, and its maximum takeoff weight reaches 442 tons.
To accommodate an aircraft with such technical specifications, it was necessary to completely reevaluate and upgrade the existing airport infrastructure to international standards. As a result, Etimesgut Airport resumed operations as a diplomatic hub, undergoing a series of technical modifications.
In particular, the runway length was extended from 2,450 meters to 3,000 meters, and its width was increased to 60 meters. Consequently, the airfield was brought into compliance with the highest category of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
This allows for the unrestricted takeoff and landing of giant aircraft such as the Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A380. Experts noted that Ankara’s elevation and high summer temperatures affect aircraft performance, making these upgrades essential.
As part of the project, not only were the runways renovated, but navigation and lighting systems were also fully modernized. A large apron capable of accommodating up to 44 aircraft simultaneously was constructed on the airport grounds.
It should be noted that the aforementioned Boeing 747-8 previously belonged to the Emir of Qatar and was later transferred for use as the new official aircraft of the U.S. President. During the NATO summit, this aircraft became the largest and most prominent aircraft at the event.
