Nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the small city of Gisborne is home to a one-of-a-kind aviation wonder—an airport runway intersected by an active railway line. Known as Gisborne Airport, this extraordinary airstrip spans across 160 hectares and remains the only operational airport in the world where trains routinely pass through the runway.
At the heart of the airport, the Palmerston North–Gisborne railway line runs directly across the main runway, dividing it nearly in half. This rare coexistence of rail and air traffic creates an unusual yet meticulously managed choreography of operations, where trains and aircraft must wait for each other to pass under strict coordination.
The airport operates from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM, during which time both train and air traffic are actively scheduled. A signal system near the runway alerts approaching trains to halt when aircraft are landing or taking off, ensuring safety in this high-precision zone. The challenge lies in the seamless coordination between rail operators and airport control, making every day a logistical feat for staff.
Though other airports have had similar setups in the past—such as Wynyard Airport in Tasmania, Australia, which ceased train traffic in 2005—Gisborne Airport remains the only functioning example today.
In a typical week, the airport handles over 60 domestic flights, serving more than 150,000 passengers annually. The facility includes three grass runways and one main sealed runway, the latter being the railway-crossed highlight.
Beyond its engineering uniqueness, Gisborne is admired for its natural beauty—lush greenery, serene coastlines, and a tranquil atmosphere that draws tourists. However, it’s the surreal spectacle of trains and planes sharing the same stretch of land that has captivated global attention.
Social media users frequently share photos and videos of this rare phenomenon, contributing to the growing popularity of the airport as both a travel hub and a visual curiosity.
As global infrastructure becomes increasingly complex, Gisborne Airport stands as a symbol of innovation, adaptability, and harmonious coexistence between rail and air travel—a testament to how creative logistics can turn a small city into a global talking point.
