Riyadh Air Base


Riyadh Air Base formerly Riyadh International Airport until 1982 is an airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was originally used by Saudia as a Hub before the New Airport was opened in 1982. It was originally opened in 1946.

History

Originally used for commercial flights by Saudi Arabia Airlines, the airport witnessed the destruction of Saudia Flight 163 on the night of August 19, 1980. The Lockheed L-1011-200 was attempting to evacuate its passengers when smoke filled the cabin and later burst into flames on the tarmac.
In 1982, King Khalid International Airport was opened which lead to this airport becoming a Military base for the Royal Saudi Air Force.

Current Status

K. Faisal Academy is on the air base and uses Pilatus PC-9's for pilot training. OERY has two crossing runways. 19-01 is the alpha and 15-30 is the bravo. It is home to the Civil Defense fleet as well. During the late 2010s, the airport had a new runway built. Riyadh Airbase is used as a standby base for the United States.

Accidents and incidents