Joint Base Balad
Welcome to Joint Base Balad. This airport lies near Balad, Iraq, about 40 miles north of Baghdad. It started as Al-Bakr Air Base in the early 1980s. In 2003, U.S. forces captured it during the Iraq War. They called it Balad Air Base and Anaconda Logistical Support Area. On June 15, 2008, it became Joint Base Balad. The U.S. handed it back to the Iraqi Air Force on November 8, 2011. During the war, it was the second largest U.S. base in Iraq. It also became one of the busiest airports in the world. Today, it hosts the Iraqi Air Force's Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons.
Live Air Traffic
Welcome to Joint Base Balad. This airport is located near Balad, Iraq. It sits 40 miles north of Baghdad. Originally, it was called Al-Bakr Air Base. The U.S. Army captured it in 2003 during the Iraq War. They renamed it Balad Air Base and Anaconda Logistical Support Area. In 2008, it became Joint Base Balad. The U.S. handed it back to the Iraqi Air Force in 2011. Today, it is home to the Iraqi Air Force's F-16 Fighting Falcons. During the Iraq War, it was the second largest U.S. base in Iraq. It was also one of the busiest airports in the world. It had 27,500 takeoffs and landings each month. That made it second only to Heathrow Airport.
Basic information about airport
| Airport code: | ORBD |
|---|---|
| Type: | medium |
| Continent: | AS |
| Country code: | IQ |
| Country: | Iraq |
| City | Balad |
| IATA: | XQC |
| Longitude: | 44.361598968500005 |
| Latitude: | 33.940200805699995 |
Joint Base Balad on Google Maps
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Joint Base Balad Airport (IATA: XQC) A Comprehensive Guide
Joint Base Balad, located in the Salah ad Din Governorate of Iraq, is a significant military airbase that has played a crucial role in the region's aviation history. Originally built in the early 1980s as Al-Bakr Air Base, it was captured by U.S. forces during the Iraq War in 2003 and subsequently renamed Joint Base Balad in 2008. This airport, with the IATA code XQC, is situated approximately 40 miles north of Baghdad and has been a pivotal hub for military operations and logistics. Although it does not currently offer scheduled passenger services, its historical significance and operational capacity make it an interesting subject for aviation enthusiasts and military historians alike.
Airlines and Destinations
Joint Base Balad does not operate scheduled commercial passenger flights. Instead, it primarily serves military and logistical operations. The base is home to the Iraqi Air Force's fleet, including Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons. While there are no commercial airlines or regular destinations, the base facilitates various military transport flights, connecting personnel and supplies to and from other military installations and operational theaters.
Number of Passengers and Flights
During its peak operational period, particularly during the Iraq War, Joint Base Balad was one of the busiest airports in the world, recording approximately 27,500 takeoffs and landings per month. This volume of traffic made it second only to Heathrow Airport in terms of flight operations. However, in its current state, the airport does not cater to civilian passenger traffic, and thus, the number of passengers and flights has significantly decreased.
How to Get Here
Accessing Joint Base Balad is primarily restricted to military personnel and authorized contractors. The base is located near the city of Balad, which is approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Baghdad. For those with access, the most common way to reach the base is via military transport or convoy. Civilian access is limited, and travelers should ensure they have the necessary permissions and documentation before attempting to enter the base.
Parking
As Joint Base Balad is a military installation, there are no public parking facilities available for civilian use. Parking is designated for military personnel and authorized vehicles only. Visitors must adhere to strict security protocols and should not attempt to park without proper authorization.
Transportation Price
Since Joint Base Balad does not operate as a commercial airport, there are no standard transportation prices associated with travel to and from the base. Transportation is typically provided by military vehicles or authorized contractors, and costs may vary based on the specific arrangements made by the military or contracting agencies.
Terminal Layout
Joint Base Balad features a functional layout designed to accommodate military operations rather than commercial passenger services. The airport has two runways, with a total length of 22,985 feet, one of which is lighted. The terminal facilities are primarily focused on military logistics, including cargo handling and personnel transport, rather than the amenities typically found in civilian airports.
Navigate the Airport
Navigating Joint Base Balad requires familiarity with military protocols and procedures. As a military installation, the airport does not have the same signage or amenities as a civilian airport. Personnel and authorized visitors should follow the guidance of military staff and adhere to security measures in place. Maps and directional signs may be limited, so it is advisable to have a clear understanding of the layout before arrival.
Getting Between Terminals
Joint Base Balad does not have multiple terminals in the traditional sense. The airport's layout is designed for military efficiency, with facilities concentrated around the operational needs of the base. Movement between different areas of the base may require military transport or walking, depending on the distance and security protocols in place.
Services and Amenities
As a military airbase, Joint Base Balad is equipped with essential services to support military operations. However, it lacks the extensive amenities found in civilian airports. Services may include basic medical facilities, military logistics support, and limited dining options for personnel. Visitors should not expect the range of services typically available at commercial airports.
Restaurants and Shops
Dining options at Joint Base Balad are primarily geared towards military personnel. There may be limited food service facilities, often providing basic meals and snacks. However, the selection is not comparable to the variety found in civilian airports. Shops and retail options are also limited, focusing on military supplies and necessities rather than consumer goods.
Security and Customs
Security at Joint Base Balad is stringent, reflecting its status as a military installation. Access is restricted to authorized personnel, and all visitors must undergo thorough security checks. Customs procedures are primarily focused on military logistics rather than civilian travel, and travelers should be prepared to comply with military regulations and protocols.
Accessibility
Joint Base Balad is designed primarily for military operations, and as such, accessibility features may not be as comprehensive as those found in civilian airports. However, military personnel with disabilities are accommodated according to military standards. Visitors should inquire about specific accessibility options if needed.
Travel Tips
- Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary permissions and documentation to access Joint Base Balad. Unauthorized entry is strictly prohibited.
- Security Protocols: Familiarize yourself with military security protocols and be prepared for thorough checks upon arrival.
- Transportation Arrangements: Plan your transportation in advance, as access to the base is limited to military transport or authorized vehicles.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated on any changes to access policies or operational status at Joint Base Balad, as military protocols can change frequently.
- Respect Military Protocols: Always adhere to military guidelines and respect the operational environment of the base.
In conclusion, Joint Base Balad (XQC) serves as a vital military airbase with a rich history and significant operational capacity. While it does not cater to civilian passenger traffic, its role in military logistics and operations remains crucial. Understanding the unique nature of this airport can provide valuable insights into its importance within the broader context of military aviation.