Prince Sultan Air Base

Prince Sultan Air Base is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the SA AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.

Overview

Prince Sultan Air Base (OEPS) is a medium-sized airport located in Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia, situated at an elevation of 1,651 feet mean sea level. The base features two parallel runways, each 13,123 feet long with asphalt surfaces, capable of supporting significant military and potentially commercial aviation operations. Its strategic location in central Saudi Arabia provides a critical aviation infrastructure point for regional air activities.

Flying Conditions

The airport experiences predominantly favorable flying conditions, with VFR conditions present 93.2% of the time. Temperature variations are substantial, ranging from 5°C to 45°C with an average of 22.3°C, which pilots should consider for performance planning. Wind patterns are consistently from the south (180°), averaging 5.6 knots, with excellent visibility averaging 10 statute miles and minimal instances of reduced weather conditions.

Notable Features

Prince Sultan Air Base features twin parallel runways (17L/35R and 17R/35L) aligned in a near-perfect north-south orientation. Both runways demonstrate identical favorable wind conditions, with 100% wind compatibility and minimal average crosswind of 3.2 knots. The airport's elevation of 1,651 feet and geographic positioning in the central Arabian region contribute to its strategic operational capabilities.

Approach Considerations

Pilots can expect consistently favorable approach conditions, with September, October, and November presenting the best VFR flying weather. The parallel runway configuration allows flexible operations with minimal wind interference. The predictable southern wind pattern and excellent visibility make approaches to either runway 17L/35R or 17R/35L straightforward, with statistically minimal meteorological challenges.