A highway strip, also known as a road runway or road base, is a specially constructed section of a highway or motorway designed to function as a runway for military aircraft. These strips serve as auxiliary military air bases, allowing aircraft to operate even if their primary bases become unusable during conflicts. Notably, countries like Germany, Russia, and China have built highway strips for military purposes. For instance, the C-130 Hercules was seen landing on the autobahn A29 near Ahlhorn during a NATO exercise in March 1984.
Highway strips are generally straight sections of roadway, ranging from 1 to 2 nautical miles long. Some have even been adapted for Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft. To ensure safety, any central median is equipped with crash barriers that can be quickly removed, allowing aircraft to utilize the full width of the road. These roads require a sturdier surface and a solid concrete foundation to support the weight of large aircraft.
Specialized equipment is often kept nearby, enabling rapid transformation of the highway into an operational airstrip within 24 to 48 hours. Before aircraft can take off or land, the road must be cleared of debris to ensure safety. In addition to military uses, highway strips can also be found in Australia, where they support services like the Flying Doctor service.
