The World’s Most Extreme Runways
Landings That’ll Make Your Palms Sweat
Most runways are smooth, straight, and safely surrounded by endless flat land.
But not all airports are so safe.
Some runways are carved into cliffs. Others end in ocean. Some tilt like ski slopes. And a few? Well… they make even seasoned pilots white-knuckle the yoke.
Lukla Airport, Nepal (Tenzing-Hillary Airport)
Nickname: The Gateway to Everest
Runway Length: Just 527 meters (1,729 ft)
Altitude: 9,334 ft above sea level
What Makes It Extreme:
The runway is on a mountain slope
One end is a sheer cliff wall, the other a drop into the valley
No go-around options you land or you don’t
Only experienced STOL (short takeoff and landing) pilots are allowed to attempt it.
Princess Juliana Airport, St. Maarten
Famous For: Planes skimming the beach
What Makes It Extreme:
The runway begins just meters behind a public beach
Aircraft fly so low over Maho Beach, it feels like you could touch the wheels
This one’s not as dangerous for pilots but for sunbathers getting blasted by jet engines, it’s a whole different kind of thrill.
Courchevel Altiport, France
Runway Length: 525 meters (1,722 ft)
What Makes It Extreme:
Built on a ski slope in the French Alps
Has a decline of 18.5% that’s a literal drop
No lights, no instrument approach, no go around
Only visual landings are allowed, and the short, steep runway means you’re either a pro… or in trouble.
Madeira Airport, Portugal
What Makes It Extreme:
The runway juts out over the ocean on columns
Strong winds, turbulence, and sudden drops make every approach a challenge
Pilots need special training just to land here. One shift in wind? You're either realigning fast or circling again.
Narsarsuaq Airport, Greenland
What Makes It Extreme:
Surrounded by fjords and glaciers
Strong crosswinds, icing conditions, and narrow approaches
Runway ends in icy water
It’s one of the most isolated runways in the world, and pilots deal with both weather and terrain.
Toncontín Airport, Honduras
What Makes It Extreme:
Runway is short, sloped, and surrounded by mountains
Planes must make a sharp turn just before landing
It’s been rated one of the most dangerous airports in the world and it’s not just hype. The approach alone is enough to make your palms sweat.