Trains Cross Plane Runway At This Unique Airport In New Zealand

For the adventurous traveller, there is nothing quite like stumbling upon a hidden gem that defies convention. Now, imagine landing at an airport that is as much an engineering marvel as it is a curiosity, where the hum of planes taking off is accompanied by the sound of trains rolling by. Welcome to New Zealand's Gisborne Airport, where trains and planes share the same space - literally. A railway line crosses right over the runway, making this airport a one-of-a-kind wonder.

According to a News18 report, the airport spans 160 hectares and is cut in half by the Palmerston North-Gisborne railway line. Daily hours for both the airport and train operations are from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm. Beyond that, the runway is closed.

This unique arrangement forces trains and aeroplanes to make way for one another. Aircraft have to wait if a train is passing, and vice versa. Remarkably, the airport regulates the railway signals, stopping trains as needed to allow planes to land or take off.

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Gisborne airport spans 160 hectares
Photo Credit: Instagram/haus_oft

The railway in question is part of the Gisborne City Vintage Railway, which runs steam trains between Muriwai and Gisborne. These vintage locomotives cross the runway about 15 times a year, mostly during the summer months when cruise ships are visiting. The airport staff, who meticulously handle both flight and train schedules, face the daily challenge of coordinating them without overlap.

Gisborne is one of New Zealand's 62 airports and is located in the Elgin neighbourhood. Despite its small size, the airport sees more than 1.5 lakh passengers a year and manages over 60 domestic flights each week. Its distinctive design is further highlighted by the presence of three subsidiary runways in addition to the main one.

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Gisborne is the only airport in the world where trains still straddle an active runway. Wynyard Airport in Tasmania once had a similar setup but ceased rail operations in 2005.

In addition to this technical oddity, Gisborne Airport serves as a gateway to the area's scenic landscape, including tranquil beaches and verdant farms. However, it is the uncommon sight of a train and an aeroplane patiently waiting for one another on the runway that truly sets it apart. The moment, often captured on camera, frequently goes viral on social media.