Introduction
Corral de Mulas Airport (IATA: CDE, ICAO: LECM) is a public aerodrome located near the town of Corral de Mulas in the province of Almería, Andalusia, Spain. It serves as a regional hub for general aviation, air taxi operations, and occasional charter flights. The airport lies at an elevation of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above mean sea level, positioned in a valley surrounded by the Sierra de Almería mountain range. Its strategic location provides access to remote communities in the region and supports tourism, agricultural logistics, and emergency services.
Location and Geographical Context
Geographic Setting
Corral de Mulas Airport is situated approximately 12 kilometres east of the municipal centre of Corral de Mulas. The surrounding terrain is characterised by rugged limestone formations and semi-arid scrubland, typical of the Mediterranean basin. The airport sits within the Iberian Peninsula's central plateau, where temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, impacting flight operations.
Transport Links
Access to the aerodrome is provided by a regional road that connects the airport to the A-44 highway, enabling ground transportation for passengers and cargo. The nearest major city, Almería, lies about 80 kilometres to the south, with the Almería–El Torcal Airport offering larger commercial services. Public bus routes operate on a limited schedule, and local taxis serve the airport during peak flight periods.
Physical Characteristics
Runway Configuration
The main runway, designated 09/27, is a single asphalt strip measuring 1,200 metres in length and 30 metres in width. The runway orientation aligns with the prevailing easterly winds, mitigating crosswind issues for most operations. A runway lighting system, consisting of edge lights and threshold markers, supports night operations, although the aerodrome remains predominantly used during daylight hours due to limited air traffic control resources.
Navigation Aids and Instrumentation
Corral de Mulas Airport is equipped with a non-directional beacon (NDB) situated on the airfield perimeter, providing basic navigational support for pilots operating under visual flight rules. The NDB operates on a frequency of 411 kHz and is identified by the Morse code signal "CDE." Instrument approach procedures are not certified, and pilots rely on GPS-based RNAV approaches when available. The aerodrome also features a wind sock and a small beacon indicating the presence of a heliport on the southern side of the property.
Facilities
- Terminal Building: A modest two‑story structure that houses a waiting area, pilot lounge, and administrative offices.
- Hangar Space: Three T‑shaped hangars, each with a capacity of two light aircraft, are available for lease to local aviation clubs and private owners.
- Fuel Supply: Avgas 100LL is available 24/7 via an automated dispenser, while Jet A1 is supplied on a rotational schedule by an external distributor.
- Ground Support: The airport maintains a small fleet of tow tractors and a de‑icing unit during winter months.
Operations and Infrastructure
Air Traffic Services
The aerodrome operates as a non‑control facility; pilots use the standard "see and avoid" methodology and broadcast position reports on the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) of 122.8 MHz. The absence of an on‑site air traffic controller limits the airport's capacity for high‑volume operations but suits its general aviation profile.
Flight Operations Statistics
Annual aircraft movements, recorded by the Spanish Civil Aviation Authority, average approximately 6,500 during the most recent five‑year period. Of these, 70% are general aviation flights, 20% involve air taxi services, and 10% are training sorties conducted by local flight schools. Passenger throughput is modest, with an estimated 45,000 passengers per year, primarily composed of tourists and regional residents.
Aircraft Types Utilised
The airport accommodates a range of light aircraft, including single‑engine piston models such as the Cessna 172 and Piper PA‑28, twin‑engine piston aircraft, and small turboprops like the Beechcraft King Air. The runway's length and load capacity restrict the operation of larger aircraft; however, a few short‑takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft occasionally use the airfield for specialized missions.
Historical Development
Origins
Corral de Mulas Airport was established in 1978 as a municipal initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity for the remote communities of the Almería province. The original airstrip was a simple grass runway measuring 800 metres, constructed by local volunteers using donated equipment.
Expansion Phase (1985–1995)
In response to increased demand for agricultural aviation services, the airport underwent significant upgrades between 1985 and 1995. The runway was paved with asphalt, extended to 1,200 metres, and equipped with a wind sock and basic lighting. Funding for these projects was sourced from regional development grants and contributions from local businesses engaged in farming and tourism.
Modernization (2000–Present)
From 2000 onward, the airport continued to modernise its infrastructure, introducing GPS‑based approach procedures and upgrading the terminal building to include a passenger lounge and a small retail kiosk. In 2015, the airport received certification for the use of aviation fuel 100LL, enhancing its appeal to general aviation pilots.
Aviation Services
General Aviation
Corral de Mulas Airport is a hub for private pilots and flight training operations. The presence of an aviation club provides maintenance services, flight instruction, and social facilities for members. The club operates a fleet of 12 aircraft, including light single‑engine models and a few twin‑engine planes.
Air Taxi and Charter Operations
Air taxi companies operate from the aerodrome, offering on‑demand transport to nearby cities and tourist destinations. Charter flights often cater to niche markets such as wine tourism, providing transport between vineyards in the Almería region and larger urban centres.
Medical and Emergency Services
The airport hosts an emergency medical flight base that provides air ambulance services for patients in the high‑altitude areas of the Sierra de Almería. During severe weather events or natural disasters, the aerodrome functions as a staging area for relief operations.
Economic Impact
Employment
Direct employment at Corral de Mulas Airport includes staff for ground handling, fuel management, administrative roles, and maintenance. An estimated 30 individuals work directly at the airport, while indirect employment is generated through associated businesses such as taxi services, catering, and hospitality establishments in the town.
Tourism Promotion
The airport supports the local tourism economy by providing access to the Sierra de Almería National Park and nearby cultural sites. Seasonal charter flights bring visitors for hiking, bird watching, and cultural festivals, contributing to local revenue streams.
Agricultural Aviation
Agri‑aviation services operate from the aerodrome, providing crop dusting and aerial surveillance for farms in the region. These operations increase efficiency in agricultural production, reduce pesticide usage, and enhance crop yields, translating into measurable economic benefits for the community.
Environmental Considerations
Noise Management
Due to its proximity to residential areas, noise abatement procedures are in place. Pilots are instructed to adhere to the "low‑altitude approach" during evenings, reducing the impact on local inhabitants. The airport also employs an advisory bulletin that schedules flights during daylight hours to minimize nocturnal disturbances.
Wildlife Hazard Mitigation
The surrounding terrain supports a range of wildlife, including birds that may pose hazards during takeoff and landing. The aerodrome implements a wildlife management program, which includes habitat modification, regular patrols, and coordination with local conservation authorities to maintain safety standards.
Fuel Management and Emissions
Fuel handling at the airport follows stringent environmental protocols. Spill containment systems and waste oil recycling facilities are in place to reduce the ecological footprint. The airport actively monitors emissions from ground support equipment and encourages the use of fuel‑efficient aircraft by providing informational materials to pilots.
Notable Incidents
1983 Crop Duster Accident
On 12 June 1983, a single‑engine crop duster encountered an unexpected downdraft while approaching the runway, resulting in a hard landing that damaged the aircraft but left occupants unharmed. The incident prompted the installation of a weather monitoring system in 1985.
2010 Helicopter Overrun
In March 2010, a helicopter performing a medical evacuation overran the runway due to a tailwind exceeding the aircraft's performance limits. The helicopter sustained minor damage; there were no injuries. Following the incident, the aerodrome upgraded its runway signage to indicate wind shear advisories.
2019 Fuel Spill
A minor fuel spill occurred on 23 August 2019 when a maintenance vehicle's fuel tank cracked during refueling operations. Emergency response teams contained the spill within minutes, and the airport resumed normal operations after a cleanup campaign. The event led to a review of vehicle maintenance procedures.
Future Development
Runway Extension Proposal
Local authorities have submitted a proposal to extend the runway by 300 metres, enabling the operation of small regional turboprops. The extension would enhance connectivity for the area and support potential airline service initiation, pending regulatory approval and environmental assessments.
Infrastructure Modernisation
Planned upgrades include the installation of a satellite‑based landing system to improve approach capabilities during low‑visibility conditions. The aerodrome also aims to integrate a digital flight planning kiosk for pilots, streamlining operations and improving situational awareness.
Community Engagement Initiatives
The airport is collaborating with educational institutions to develop aviation outreach programs. These initiatives provide students with exposure to aviation careers, fostering local interest in aeronautics and supporting workforce development.
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