5 Scariest Airport Runways In the World

Considered one of the most extreme airports globally, Lukla Airport is nestled between a mountainous area and a deep valley. The runway is only 1,729 feet long, demanding precise landings and takeoffs amidst challenging terrain and often unpredictable weather.

Known for its proximity to a popular beach, this airport's runway is so close to the water that incoming planes fly at alarmingly low altitudes, sometimes just 30-60 feet above sunbathers. 

Set in the French Alps, Courchevel Altiport's runway is integrated into the mountainside and spans just 1,762 feet. Only pilots with specialized training can land here, as the short and steep runway offers very little room for error.

Madeira Airport's runway sits between a cliff and the ocean, notorious for its variable wind conditions. Though extended to 9,124 feet in 2000, much of this extension rests on a platform supported by 180 columns over the sea. This setup poses significant risks during adverse weather conditions.

Built on a reclaimed land area, this runway requires pilots to navigate around Gibraltar's tall mountain before landing. The runway intersects with a main road that must be closed off for aircraft to land or take off, adding another layer of complexity and danger to operations.