Melilla Airport is an airport located in Melilla, an enclave of Spain in Africa. The airport is located about southwest of the city, near the border with Morocco. Between 1931 and 1967 Melilla was served by the Tauima Aerodrome, even when Morocco had gained its independence in 1956. This Spanish controlled airport did not open until 1969.
History
In the 1920s, several military aerodromes were built in area for the Air Arm of the Spanish Army:
Following the conflict between Spain and Morocco, a new military airfield was built near Cabrerizas Altas. This airport had a simple landing area. As tension settled and Spain was able to re-establish land around Melilla, this airport was relocated again further south of city. The new airport, Tauima Aerodrome, was opened for civilian flights 1931 and used also by the military. The El Atalayón hydroplane air station in the Mar Chica was operational in the 1930s to provide additional air travel options using Dornier Do J seaplanes. In 1956 the end of the Spanish protectorate over northern Morocco placed the airport outside of control from Spain, although some investment from Spain was done in the aerodrome until 1958. Limited access to the airport was given to Melilla by secured bus until 1967. The Tauima aerodrome later became Nador International Airport. In 1969, the current airport was opened within Melilla's borders and was strictly a civilian facility.
The airlines serving the airport are regional carriers connecting to Spain to the north. The airport is also a general aviation airfield and handles private small aircraft. There are no flights directed to airports in Morocco. In the past Melilla was also served by Spantax from 1969–1981, Aviaco from 1981–1992 and Binter Mediterraneo from 1992–2001.
Ground Transportation
Passengers can get to and from the airport by car or taxi. ML-204 is the main road accessing the airport and connects to the city. ML-300 provides access to areas outside of the city.
On 17 January 2003, an Air NostrumFokker 50, operating for Iberia, overran the runway and broke apart. Nine people were injured but there were no fatalities.
