Taxiways must be capable of accommodating the wingspan, wheel spacing, and turning radius of the ER-2. The runway and taxiway surfaces must have a bearing strength of T-40 or greater. The 104 foot wingspan of the ER-2 requires an extremely large hangar door width. A 110 foot wide door is normally required for operations. The ER-2 uses special thermally stable jet fuel, and liquid oxygen for the pilot's life support system.
Some instruments also require liquid nitrogen or other cryogens for proper operation.
Adequate storage and handling facilities for fuel and cryogens must be present or easily installed. The chosen location must include adequate support facilities for the aircraft as well as the scientific support team. This includes briefing rooms, meteorological data facilities, life support facilities, and flight planning rooms. Diplomatic Negotiations Concurrently with the site survey process, diplomatic negotiations with the proposed host country will be conducted to attain any necessary approvals. While it is generally helpful if the ER-2 has operated from the proposed host country in the past, this will not necessarily reduce the required lead time.