Built 30 years ago as a marvel of modern engineering, Japan’s Kansai International Airport made headlines as the world’s most unique airport, constructed entirely on artificial islands right in the middle of the water. But despite its groundbreaking design, the airport has been sinking slowly but steadily.
Since Kansai International Airport was built in 1987, the main
artificial island has sunk about 38 feet (12 meters), while the second island, which is a separate part of the airport complex, has sunk about 57 feet (17.5 meters) in total since construction.
Experts warn that if the current sinking continues, the airport could drop another 13 feet (four meters) by 2056, potentially reaching sea level. This slow descent serves as a fascinating and unsettling reminder of nature’s power over even the most ambitious human creations.
Click through the gallery to explore how this engineering wonder is holding its ground.