Tràigh Mhòr, Beach and airport runway in Isle of Barra, Scotland
Tràigh Mhòr is a wide beach covered in white shell sand on the northern tip of Barra between Ardmhor and Eoligarry villages. The expanse slopes gently toward the Atlantic Ocean and changes shape twice daily with the tides.
The beach received airport approval in 1936 and became a natural landing strip for aircraft. This use began as a simple idea and developed into regular flight services to this remote Scottish island.
The beach holds meaning for locals as a place where traditional shellfish gathering continues as part of daily life. These practices connect residents to their heritage and their bond with the sea.
The beach closes during flight operations, which you can see marked by the windsock flag that signals active use. It helps to check tide tables since the strand becomes submerged twice daily and is impassable at those times.
This is the only beach in the world where aircraft regularly land and take off. Visitors can witness the rare experience of watching planes arrive on an ordinary strip of sand.
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