The Debate Over Berlin's Tempelhof Airport

"Berlin lawmakers have been pushing for years to shutter Tempelhof. The reunified city no longer needs all of its three airports remaining from the Cold War, they say. Critics also raise issues of noise and safety for the apartment houses that press close to Tempelhof's twin runways."

"Plans are in motion to consolidate air traffic and create a major international hub at Schoenefeld airport, on the city's eastern edge. It may not be so easy, however, to close Tempelhof in the name of progress. Its history, and size, may loom too large."

"Many business interests see big economic potential in Tempelhof and are lobbying to keep it open permanently, arguing that it could serve as a hub for business jets and commuter flights without damaging the economic prospects of the new international airport. Unlike most big-city airports, Tempelhof is easily accessible, located only three miles from the city center."

"Tempelhof is also protected by historic preservation laws, which means that it can't simply be demolished or turned into a shopping mall. Some developers and advocates say Berlin officials have no real choice other than to allow Tempelhof to continue operating as an airport in some fashion. Otherwise it could become a sprawling, boarded-up blight in the city center."