In today’s interconnected world, air travel has become the fastest and most convenient mode of transport, linking even the most remote regions across continents. Yet, a few countries stand apart — nations so small, mountainous, or isolated that building an airport is nearly impossible.
From Europe’s microstates like Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City to the Pacific’s scattered islands of Kiribati, these countries rely on nearby airports, heliports, and sea routes to connect with the world. Interestingly, many of these places are major tourist destinations, proving that limited air access hasn’t stopped their global appeal.
List of 6 Countries Where Planes Cannot Land
| No. |
Country |
Key Facts |
Nearest Access Point / Transport |
Special Features / Notes |
| 1 |
Andorra |
Largest country without an airport (468 sq. km); located between France & Spain in the Pyrenees. |
Nearest: Andorra–La Seu d’Urgell Airport (Spain) – 12 km away. |
Famous for ski resorts, mountain scenery, and duty-free shopping. |
| 2 |
Liechtenstein |
No airports across 160 sq. km; has 1 heliport at Balzers. |
Nearest: Zurich Airport (Switzerland). |
Known for Alpine beauty, strong economy, and peaceful environment. |
| 3 |
Monaco |
2nd smallest country (2.02 sq. km); no airport, but has Fontvieille Heliport. |
Nearest: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (France) – 30 km away. |
Home to Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monte Carlo Casino, and luxury yachts. |
| 4 |
San Marino |
World’s oldest republic (since 301 CE); landlocked within Italy. |
Nearest: Rimini and Bologna Airports. |
Has Borgo Maggiore Heliport; famous for medieval castles and views from Mount Titano. |
| 5 |
Vatican City |
Smallest country in the world (0.44 sq. km); population under 1,000. |
Nearest: Rome International Airport; official arrivals via Vatican Heliport. |
Seat of the Roman Catholic Church, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Sistine Chapel. |
| 6 |
Kiribati |
Island nation spread across 3.5 million sq. km of Pacific Ocean with 33 islands. |
Only the capital (Tarawa) has an airport; others accessed by boats and ferries. |
Known for coral reefs, fishing, and climate vulnerability. |
Why These Countries Have No Airports
- Geographical limitations: Rugged mountains or tiny land area make runway construction difficult.
- Environmental protection: To preserve fragile ecosystems and heritage sites.
- Economic feasibility: High construction costs for low passenger volume.
- Alternative access: Connectivity maintained through helicopters, trains, or sea transport.
Quick Revision Notes (For Exams)
| Fact |
Answer |
| Largest country without an airport |
Andorra |
| Smallest country without an airport |
Vatican City |
| Countries with heliports only |
Monaco, Liechtenstein, San Marino, Vatican City |
| Island nation mostly reached by boats |
Kiribati |
| Country between France and Spain |
Andorra |
| Country famous for F1 Grand Prix but no airport |
Monaco |
| Country within Italy without airport |
San Marino |