The Effects of the Former Russian Military Airfields on Nature in Hungary and Their Present Condition

Abstract

A part of the Soviet troops stationed in Hungary from World War II until the Warsaw Pact were removed, but to date, researchers do not have enough information about their numbers and activities. In our country more Russian military airfields were operated until 1991. The author in this article describes and details the previous functions of the airfields, and presents their current functions and technical conditions. He examines the adverse effects that they have caused and still cause on their environment in their former operation and in their current state, and he investigates the possible consequences to be expected. In addition, the author gives an overview about environmental effects of aviation and airfield operation, and presents the possible forms and methods of rehabilitation. Finally, he makes a suggestion for a rehabilitation process concerning the environmental damages caused by the former Russian airfields and for possibilities of further use of the facilities.