Belmopan, Belize (Belizean.com) An F.A.A. certified pilot has called for the closure of the Belmopan (capital of Belize) airstrip following the erection of elevated concrete structure and water tower 300 feet from the threshold of the runway.

Mr. Stuart G. Young Airline transport pilot LIC# 223-0464 Federal Aviation Administration U.S.A. wrote this week in a letter to the editor of the Amandala Newspaper that: "About one year ago, I wrote a letter to the Editor of the Reporter. The letter was concerning the Belmopan airstrip and construction of a bar. The letter was heavily edited, so that the first three paragraphs were omitted. It had no technical merit and made little sense. I now will try your newspaper as I will sign and reveal my name as I did in the Reporter.

"My concern is the construction of a bar approximately 300 feet from the threshold of the runway 11 (110 degrees) on the north side of the highway. The bar and property are owned by Mr. and Mrs. Botes. He works at the Ministry of Natural Resources and his wife works at the Belmopan Market (self-employed). The Botes family have the right to open a bar, but not there. "

There's a story behind this story, but can't recall the pilots details, but the airstrip is safe and built by British forces for evacuation in case of hurricane.

Katie, I would be interested in hearing this 'story behind story' as I am a retied military pilot and have seen this airstrip firsthand. I would not relish flying in/out of this strip with the bar/building/struture located at its present location. Does being build by the British Military mean that this strip is safe for one and all? I would question such confidence. Be realistic, look closely, trim your tabs and realize the potential danger.