TEGUCIGALPA AIRPORT TEMPORARILY CLOSED

On 7 July 2009 national aviation officials announced the closure of Tegucigalpa's Toncontin International Airport for five days, beginning on 6 July and ending on 10 July. Authorities indicated that the measure may be lifted early if political conditions on the ground stabilise; however, they also stated that the closure may be extended if conditions worsen. A contingent of military troops and police officers is currently guarding the perimeter of the airport, while authorities have parked a large aircraft and other obstacles in the middle of the runway to prevent any unauthorised aircraft from landing. Security forces have also worked to repair the fence that was damaged on 5 July when supporters of deposed President Manuel Zelaya -- who was attempting to land at Toncontin International and retake his position -- broke through. Other international and domestic airports in Honduras are reportedly operating normally.