Categories: Current AffairsGeneral Studies

List of Countries Where Planes Cannot Land – No. 3 Will Surprise You!

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

Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.