Officials at Fukuoka City Hall announced plans to convert the Boat Race Fukuoka stadium into an airport (terminal) for short-haul seaplanes. The new terminal, which will open in spring 2018, will be the first of its kind in Japan. Koji Hanada, Director, Transportation Department of Fukuoka City Hall, said “Fukuoka Airport is already operating at near capacity, and even after the completion of a second runway (scheduled for completion in 2025), demands for landing slots from airlines will outstrip supply. By shifting domestic routes to this new sea airport, slots will open up for more international routes.” The boat race stadium is ideally suited for conversion into a sea terminal. Measuring 1,980 m long, it has nearly double the minimum length required for safe take offs and landings. Surrounded by barriers, waves will not be a problem either. Several domestic airlines have expressed interest in operating flights using aircraft such as the DeHavilland Turbine Twin Otter, for which the facility will be ideally suited. Already well-known as a city with one of the most convenient airports, the new sea terminal will be within walking distance of Tenjin. A press conference will be held later today to elaborate more on the plans. Photo: Test Flight, Mar.23, 2016
