and lighter airplanes to land at MHG. From 2014 on, even tighter restrictions from EASA will become effective in Europe, which will probably bring a further impact on commercial air traffic. After a first accident involving a scheduled passenger flight on March 19, 2008, and the growing lack of airlines with the adequate equipment to fly into MHG, discussions about a relocation of the airport have regained political importance. With its coming closure in 2015, Coleman Airfield is seen as a possible, but challenging alternative, as well as the airport of Speyer, where BASF has its corporate jets based. For business aviation, Mannheim still remains an attractive location: two new hangars for up to three jets were built in 2006. There are ongoing controversial discussions about shutting down the airport in the future and proposals are being considered, such as using the site for the 2023 Bundesgartenschau. Infrastructure Facilities The sand-lime brick designed terminal building, built by architect Prof. Peter Serini, opened in 1998. In its arched central section it offers two check-in counters, a security passenger checkpoint, a waiting area, a baggage claim area, a ticketing office and an electronic flight schedule. In addition it accommodates a snack-bar, airline offices, a police station and a flying school. The terminal is topped by a new control tower. Jet A-1 and Avgas 100LL are the available fuels, ground power is also available. The airport has its own fire brigade, equipped with a fire engine (FLF Impact 6000) suited to the present operations. Close to the current terminal, there are parts of the former terminal building, including the old tower, now used as a popular restaurant and biergarten. Beside the old terminal a fitness club opened its doors in 2000. A pilot shop can be found next to the parking deck. Runways The airport possesses two runways: one paved main runway (09/27) and a parallel grass runway (for gliding and ballooning only). The airport is in operation at day and night. The paved runway 09/27 offers PAPI and illumination in both directions, RWY 27 offers LLZ/DME approach, but no ILS, RWY 09 is usable under visual flight rules only. A separate, illuminated and signposted taxiway is available. Aircraft up to 10,000 kg (22,046 lb) are allowed to land at the airport. The original runway length was even shorter (730m) until it was extended for safety in the 1980s. Airlines and destinations The