The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar has been in dispute for centuries due to its strategic position guarding the entrance of the Mediterranean.
It fell under control of the British Empire following the defeat of Spain and the signing of the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713. Since then, Spain has never officially recognised British rule and has made several attempts to regain control of the area. Three wars, 14 sieges, countless negotiations and two referendums later, Gibraltar remains firmly with the UK.
One of the most renowned attractions of Gibraltar is the airport itself. Nowhere else in the world will you find a major highway and level crossing intersecting a landing strip regularly used by Airbus and Boeing jets. The 5,511ft (1,680m) Runway 09/27 intersects Winston Churchill suggest this operation is dangerous due to the potential risks involved, much effort is expended to make it a safe and efficient process.
How is it Done?
On a recent visit by the author, this question was posed to Terence Lopez, Gibraltar Airport CEO, who explained: “Any aircraft movement is preceded by a well-choreographed practice that involves lowering barriers to stop all access for both pedestrians and vehicles crossi…
