Pärnu Airport: A 20 Million Euro White Elephant

The Pärnu Airport's ambitious renovation, costing 20 million euros, was envisioned as a landmark project to put the region on the global map. However, five years after its completion, the once-heralded "wonder field" has become a costly white elephant, with its future uncertain.

Kadri Simson, who served as a minister before becoming a European Commissioner, championed the project. During her tenure, she seemingly acted with the conviction of Horace's famous lines about building a monument more enduring than bronze. Yet, from her vantage point in Brussels, Simson has watched as the life drained out of the concrete, glass, and asphalt structure.

Over the years, various parties have shown interest in the ill-fated airport. Despite these potential suitors, the project has failed to take off, leaving Pärnu with a significant financial burden and a symbol of unrealized potential. The airport's current state raises questions about the initial planning and the long-term viability of such large-scale infrastructure investments.