History
In the 1920s several military aerodromes were built in area for the Air Arm of the Spanish Army:
- Ramel - now in Morocco
- Arcila - now in Morocco
- Zeluan - now in Morocco
Following the conflict between Spain and Morocco, a new military airfield was built near Cabrerizas Altas. This airport had a simple 300 m (984 ft) landing area. As tension settled and Spain was able to re-establish land around Melilla, this airport was relocated again further south of city.
The new airport, Tauima Aerodrome, was opened for civilian flights 1931 and used also by the military. The El Atalayón hydroplane air station (now site of oyster farm) in the Mar Chica was operational in the 1930s to provide additional air travel options using Dornier Do J seaplanes. In 1956 the end of the Spanish protectorate over northern Morocco placed the airport outside of control from Spain, although some investment from Spain was done in the aerodrome until 1958. Limited access to the airport was given to Melilla by secured bus until 1967. The Tauima aerodrome later became Nador International Airport.
In 1969, the current airport was opened within Melilla's borders and was strictly a civilian facility.
Read more about this topic: Melilla Airport
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