The following is a non-exhaustive list of the main airfields and airports in the British Isles. The current total on this list is 125. Please let us know if there are any airfields that are missing which you feel should be included.
In late March 2020 many airfields closed temporarily due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Department of Transport on 15th May issued a notice allowing restricted GA flying again.
Thus the list below will gradually reflect the return to flying status of airfields, as we receive information.
Airfields themselves have always been left to make their own business decision as to whether to remain open – many did choose to do so on a limited basis to facilitate essential and emergency flights in support of the crisis and economy.
Some airfields never closed completely but the latest to provide an update on moving to an open or “more open” status are WOLVERHAMPTON HALFPENNY GREEN AIRPORT, MAIN HALL FARM, and POPHAM.
Those updated in this respect are in bold on the list.
Please always check NOTAMs AND AIRFIELD WEBSITES for the latest situation and instructions.
AIRFIELD LIST:
Alderney – The Status of Alderney Airport is not clear at present (25th March).
Andrewsfield – Website stated as of 25th May: PRIVATE OWNERS (MEMBERS) MAY FLY SOLO OR WITH HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS… PLEASE USE PPR-NOTIFICATION email info@andrewsfield.com. FUEL is currently MEMBERS ONLY and is only available Monday and Friday mornings, 0900 – 1100. E-mail info@andrewsfield.com to book fuel uplift once paid. Payment details on website, along with full instructions for airfield use.
Bagby – Nothing on website re COVID-19 as of 25th March.
Balado Bridge – Website states closed as of 24th March.
Barra – See Inverness (HIAL).
Barton – City Airport Manchester (Barton) remains open only for “Emergency Services, Military flights and other pre-approved essential flights” although on Thursday 21st Thursday a new Phased Opening Plan started, with other flying permitted only on certain dates. See https://www.cityairportandheliport.com/covid-19-getting-flight-ready.
Battersea Heliport – Has the same owners as London Oxford Airport (Reuben Brothers). until 30th March it remained open but on that date it put out a notice stating, “…with immediate effect and no forward bookings, The London Heliport will pause all operations. The Heliport will be unable to provide full services until the national lockdown is lifted. The term of the closure will be at least until 13th April, with a review nearer the time, should this be required.”
Beccles – As of 26th March no update on status in light of COVID-19 situation.
Bembridge – Airfield re-opened to visiting aircraft on 23rd May 2020. The website home page now has full details and instructions. PPR mandatory via online form. Sadly the Propeller Inn remains closed.
Benbecula – See Inverness (HIAL).
Beverley – Hull Aero Club. Nothing on website yet about COVID-19.
Biggin Hill – London Biggin Hill Airport is fully operational.
Bicester – website said as of 24th March 2020, “DUE TO COVID-19 ALL FLYING OF TRIAL LESSONS HAS BEEN SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.”
Blackbushe – Posted a Notice saying Phase 1 of reopening started on Tuesday 19th May. See website for further details.
Blackpool – Website stated as of 20th April: “Whilst Blackpool Airport remains open for business, we are following Government advice to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our customers and staff and their families. Our focus in the short to medium term will be to provide essential services to Search & Rescue, Off Shore, Military and Emergency Service aircraft as necessary. The Airport remains open for all other services (GA & Corporate) however, it anticipates the level of flights to and from the Airport will reduce significantly as the travel rules take effect. We will be monitoring the changing demands on a day by day basis to ensure our the operational establishment at the Airport can continue to providing Fire and Rescue (CAT2 & 3) cover and a full Air Traffic Service. Fuel services for JETA1 and AVGAS also remain available whether pre-booked or on request. Any changes to the services available will be recorded in a published NOTAM as necessary.”
Bodmin – Website states: “Bodmin Airfield is open to Cornwall Flying Club members from Monday 18th May and hopes to be able to welcome visitors in the coming weeks.”
Booker (Wycombe Air Park) – 24th March Notice from CEO Sean Brown states: “Further to the Prime Minister’s speech last night, I am announcing that all BEA group Companies are temporarily closing for a few weeks until the government relaxes its instructions in relation to social distancing. This is in response to the national coronavirus pandemic. Airways Aero Associations Ltd, Booker Aviation, Heli Air Ltd and Heli Air Scotland Ltd, will all be closed as of today.”
Boston – As of 25th March there was not yet any mention of COVID-19.
Bourn – Nothing on the site about COVID-19 (as of March 25th). Sad to note the death of the club’s CFI Arthur Lindsay Brown on 4th February 2020.
Breighton – Home of the Real Aeroplane Company but nothing yet (as of 25th March) regarding status in the light of COVID-19.
Brimpton – Airfield website says: “In light of the recent Government announcement Brimpton Airfield is now closed. Any PPR Request will be refused. Pilots are reminded that Brimpton operates in Restricted Area R101 any aircraft attempting to use the runway without PPR will be classed as an infringement.”
Bristol – Airport website said as of 19th March 2020: “Bristol Airport continues to follow all government guidance regarding the Coronavirus outbreak. In line with government guidance, passengers arriving into Bristol Airport are not currently subject to any restrictions or additional screening checks. However, passenger journeys originating in an area affected by the COVID-19 virus may be subject to checks at the origin airport.” The Bristol and Wessex Flying Club page states: “Please Note: We are currently closed due to the Coronavirus outbreak, stay up to date with our latest news and updates on our social media channels and blog.” Also, see Bristol Flying Club.
Caernarfon – As of 25th March 2020 there was nothing on the airport’s website about COVID-19.
Cambridge – Website states: “Effective of Monday 23rd March 2020, Cambridge City Airport will be implementing a change to the Cambridge City Airport’s Operating Hours. We are currently still open for General and Business Aviation flights, which will be running as normal. New Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 10:00-18:00 Saturday-Sunday: Consideration given to weekend operations upon receipt of a formal request…”
Campbeltown – See Inverness (HIAL).
Cardiff – As of early April 2020 notice on website stated “Cardiff Airport is closely following guidance provided by the relevant authorities in relation to updated procedures for COVID-19. If you are due to travel, please contact your airline or travel agent for information – do not travel to the airport.”
Carlisle Lake District Airport – As of 8th April, Notice on Website said: “Closed until further notice from 1st April due to the COVID-19 epidemic.”
Chiltern Park – Confirmed to GAAC that airfield was among the first to close (around 24th March 2020).
Clacton – Nothing evident on website about COVID-19 as of 25th March.
Compton Abbas – Compton opened for aircraft to visit from Wednesday 20th May. Pilots MUST PPR via email. Temporary opening hours are 1000 – 1600 Wednesday to Sunday. Airfield management stated: “We will respond by email with information regarding the Coronavirus measures we have implemented that you must read before you attend the airfield, and follow.”
Coventry – as of March 24th there was nothing on the airfield website yet about temporary closure.
Cranfield – as of March 24th there was nothing on the airfield website yet about temporary closure.
Denham – Airfield reported on 16th April that it remains open for restricted operations, but every flight requires PPR from the Aerodrome Manager.
A couple of helicopters are doing survey work for Network Rail; another helicopter is carrying out filming for news channels; and there are some maintenance flights for helicopters that will be involved in a new resilience unit. There have also been a few flights bringing British nationals back to UK, or taking French nationals home, etc.
Derby – Derby Airfield and the Derby Aero Club are owned and operated by Airspeed Aviation Ltd. The airfield management confirmed it has been closed since 23th March but for the time being it remains licensed.
Doncaster Sheffield – NOTAM 2nd April running to end of June says: “Aerodrome Closed due to COVID-19 infection prevention. No tower service available, RFFS CAT 0. Approved out of hours CAT A/B operators not affected for departures only.”
Dornoch Airfield – Believed to be still open as of 25th March, but website asks pilots to email info.aerodromes@highland.gov.uk “to confirm permission to land, giving your estimated date and time of arrival.”
Dundee – See Inverness (Highlands & Islands Airports Limited).
Dunkeswell – as of March 24th there was nothing on the airfield website yet about temporary closure. However it is known to have closed.
Dunsfold – Dunsfold has requested GAAC to direct visitors to their website relating to operations and anything else.
Durham Tees Valley – Notice on website states: “All flights to and from Teeside Airport from 24th March at 1800 are suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak.” It says this includes all airline operations (e.g. Eastern Airways).
Duxford – All Imperial War Museum sites are now closed including the airfield at Duxford.
Eaglescott – Website states: “DUE TO THE CURRENT SITUATION THE AIRFIELD IS CLOSED TO ALL VISITORS BY ROAD. If you wish to receive further information about the Airfield or our Club, consult the pages of our website or email. All Flying School Aircraft and Trial flights are currently suspended due to the ongoing situation. If you have an existing flight booked for this year or one of our own vouchers then rest assured that they will all be honoured and available to be rebooked when flying recommences.”
Earl’s Colne – GAAC has been told Earl’s Colne airfield has closed though as of 25th March there was nothing announced on the website.
Easter – Though planned fly-in (Easter@Easter, 11-12 April) has been cancelled the airfield is believed to have remained open (PPR only) – as of 25th March 2020.
East Kirkby – website stated on 26th March: “The Centre has been forced to close following recent Government measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.”
Elstree – As per NOTAM 24.03.20 and updated 26.03.20: DURING THE UK GOVERNMENT MOVEMENT RESTRICTIONS ELSTREE IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR AIRCRAFT ASSOCIATED WITH MEDICAL FLIGHTS AND THE EMERGENCY SERVICES. APPROVAL FOR ANY OTHER ESSENTIAL FLIGHTS MUST BE OBTAINED FROM THE AERODROME MANAGER ON 07793 563291 or 07976 439658. GROUND SERVICES ARE ONLY AVAILABLE FROM 9am to 5pm. FUEL WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR AIRCRAFT AUTHORIZED TO FLY ON A 24HR BASIS. ROTORS RUNNING WILL ONLY BE DONE BY THE FLIGHT CREWS SELF FUELLING DUE TO MINIMUM OPERATIONAL STAFF COVER BEING IN PLACE.
Enstone – as of 25th March there was nothing on the airfield’s website about COVID-19.
Eshott – as of 25th March there was nothing on the airfield’s website about COVID-19.
Exeter – A quieter place with Flybe gone, but 19th May 2020 update states: “The airport is still open between 09:00-17:00 local and 20:00-03:00, Monday to Friday, for instrument and approach training, cargo aircraft, FBO, fuel, and aircraft parking for a range of aircraft. Proactive measures we have taken at Exeter Airport include enhanced monitoring of flights and early liaison with airlines; additional awareness signage in the terminal; the provision of hand sanitiser dispenser locations across the airport and enhanced cleaning procedures. We continue to follow the guidance received from the relevant government agencies including Public Health England to ensure that we provide the latest and most accurate information. Thank you for your ongoing support and we look forward to welcoming you on your future travels.”
Fairoaks – Notice from Alastair Wang, Airport Manager, on 13th May stated new airport restrictions until 20th June included in latest NOTAMs. Among other things, these state RECREATIONAL GA FLIGHTS ARE STRICTLY PPR BY EMAIL AND ARE ONLY PERMITTED BETWEEN 0900 AND 1500. PPR AVAILABLE VIA EMAIL TO ALASTAIR.WANG(AT)FAIROAKSAIRPORT.CO.UK (MONITORED 0700-1600) AND MUST BE REQUESTED PRIOR TO 0800 ON THE DAY PRECEEDING THE FLIGHT. Also TRAINING FLIGHTS ARE PROHIBITED DUE TO GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE.
Farnborough – Airport confirmed on 25th March that is open. Note on website said: “Farnborough Airport is continuing to follow medical, clinically driven, advice from the relevant authorities on what measures are required and effective to deal with COVID-19.” Farnborough is purely business aviation, mainly business jets, and has no flight schools, GA clubs or based light aircraft. It was recently bought by Australia’s Macquarie Group from TAG.
Fenland – Secretary, Fenland Aero Club says Fenland (EGCL) is “operational with strict limitations.” The runways are open conditional published NOTAM. Available with prior arrangement for rotary able to self-fuel Jet A1. AVGAS and UL91 is still available self-service until further notice (caution highlighted for water checks as per local notices). Clubhouse and other facilities are closed until further notice. Aircraft requiring RFFS on licensed runways 18/26 is unavailable.
Fife – Nothing about COVID-19 on the airfield website as of 26th March.
Full Sutton – On 25th March there was nothing yet on the Full Sutton website about COVID-19. Known to have closed apart from for emergency / military with PPR.
Gatwick – Website said as of 30 March: “Flights to most destinations are either cancelled or running a very limited schedule. From 1 April, we are temporarily closing North Terminal and all flights will operate from South Terminal.” The airport’s single runway will be in use between 14:00 and 22:00 for scheduled flights, and remains available for emergency landings and diversions only outside these hours. The measures will be in place from 1 April for one month, with the situation kept under regular review. In addition easyJet announced on 30th March that its entire fleet would be grounded on 1st April.
Gloucester (Staverton) – Twitter feed (as shown on website) on 24th March stated: “At present, we remain open, but we are making some operational adjustments as of 24th. We will now be open 0900-1800 daily and operating a slot-based system for any visiting aircraft to control footfall through the terminal. Card payment only. Thanks for your cooperation,” and later: “We will not be accepting PPR requests from non-home-based operators until further notice. We will remain open and operational to support home-based essential operations. The developing situation will be assessed daily and any further changes will be promulgated. Thank you.”
Goodwood – Post in mid-May stated: “It is with great excitement that Goodwood Aerodrome is re-opening from Tuesday 19 May on a phased basis for home-based and visiting aircraft. The opening times are 0900L-1700L Tuesday to Saturday. We are closed Sunday and Monday and to out of hours movements.”
Guernsey – website states “COVID-19 (Coronavirus) travel advice can be found at www.gov.gg/covid19travel.”
Haverfordwest – Told GAAC on 27th March: “We are currently closed to all non-essential movements with PPR essential (as NOTAM’d).”
Hawarden – SERCO operating notice on the website is the only sign things have changed. Posted on 19th March it states: “Please find below opening times for the airport until further notice O745 to 1930 Monday to Friday, 0830 to 1800 Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays. Contact ATC On 01244 522012 for further information.”
Headcorn (Lashenden) – website notice says: “COVID-19 STATUS AS OF 23/03/2020: Following the latest changes announced by The Prime Minister, we are now closed to all flying activities. This is for an initial period of three weeks – check back for updates.”
Heathrow – Not your usual GA airport but at the moment both small and large aircraft are operating in and out, with a huge increase in cargo, including medical supplies. There are still some repatriation flights running, and some scheduled passenger flights. Only one runway is operating but (as of 8th April) Heathrow is OPEN.
Henstridge – Owner put notice on website March 24th: “Coronavirus Update – The Airfield is CLOSED. All facilities closed with immediate effect and until further notice. Our Prime minister’s Message is clear. Based and adjacent businesses who have rights to use the runway, must, of course, make their own decision. Fuel will NOT be available. The clubhouse will NOT be Open…The airfield will be Notam’d as closed.”
Humberside – Website Notice says: “Information about Humberside Airport’s response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19): Updated 19 March 2020. Humberside Airport remains open for flights and we are working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that we continue to operate safely and maintain a safe environment for our customers.”
Inverness – Airfield operational as of March 25th but handling agent (Highland Aviation) closed. Highlands and Islands Airports Limited said it was reviewing the operating hours at each of its 11 airports to accommodate current airline timetables while at the same time maintaining staff resilience to ensure lifeline services can continue. HIAL’s airports are Stornoway, Benbecula, Barra, Tiree, Islay, Campbeltown, Dundee, Inverness, Wick John O’Groats, Sumburgh, and Kirkwall.
Islay – See Inverness (HIAL)
Isle of Man (Ronaldsway) – Isle of Man government website says “All passengers arriving in the Isle of Man from midnight on Tuesday 17 March will be required to self-isolate for 14 days. Please see gov.im/coronavirus for more information. The Isle of Man closed its borders to non-residents from 9am on Monday 23 March 2020 to help contain the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus. This measure is based on clinical advice. Only people resident in the Isle of Man will be able to enter the Island, with checks being made at the air and sea ports.”
Isles of Scilly – The Council of the Isles of Scilly is posting updates on its own website. As of 25th March there was nothing specific relating to the airport but on the Isles of Scilly Travel website it states: “All Skybus flights from Exeter and Newquay Airports are cancelled. We will provide a very limited Skybus service from Land’s End Airport to transport essential key workers only.”
Jersey – Government website says “With effect from 00:01 on Friday 20 March all travellers, including health-care workers, arriving in Jersey must now self-isolate for 14 days. This includes the UK, Guernsey, Europe and the rest of the world and applies whether or not travellers are displaying flu-like symptoms.”
Kemble – Notice on website says Cotswold Airport closed to all traffic at 1500hrs on 25th March “until further notice.” Essential business jet traffic and emergency services/military may be accommodated with a minimum of 12hrs PPR notice to the Airport Manager christian@cotswoldairport.com or ops@cotswoldairport.com.
Lasham – NOTAM AS OF 28th MARCH 2020: “EGHL COVID-19 INFORMATION: AD STRICTLY UNAVAILABLE TO AIRCRAFT EXCEPT TRAFFIC IN CONNECTION WITH ON-SITE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR ORGANISATION AND TRAFFIC AUTHORISED BY PPR WITH THE AD OPERATOR.” A full update from the Lasham Gliding Club chairman on other aspects is available on the website.
Kirkwall – See Inverness (HIAL)
Land’s End – Land’s End Airport told GAAC on 27th March: ” We are continuing to provide the lifeline service to the Isles of Scilly – both freight and essential key workers only. We have reduced operating hours (Mon-Fri: 0900-1230, 1300-1700 and Sat: 0900-1200 and Sunday: Closed). Visiting aircraft only permitted in line with Government guidance regarding essential travel – pilots will be questioned and details taken by ATC during the mandatory PPR telephone call (as per our NOTAM).”
Leeds East – Leeds East Airport (EGCM) reported on 22nd April that it is “open 7 days a week 0830 – 1800hrs, with self service Avgas and JetA1 available.” Current NOTAM states airfield is unlicensed. For further information, please contact the FBO Manager on 01937 534194.
Lee-on-Solent – As of 25th March there was nothing on the Solent Airport (Daedalus) website relating to COVID-19 impact.
Leicester – Airport website had a notice on 24th March saying: “COVID-19 CLOSURE – Leicester Airport is now closed to all visitors until further notice. Reception and the bar and cafe remain closed and all experience flights and training have been suspended. The airfield will remain unlicenced with no emergency response or air/ground radio.”
London City Airport – On 25th March London City Airport “temporarily” suspended commercial and private flights saying this situation is expected to last until the end of April.
Lydd – Airport posted a notice on 24th March: “Following recent government guidelines, the decision has been made to CLOSE the aerodrome with immediate effect. All based operators and visiting aircraft – please monitor the NOTAMs (updated accordingly) for current aerodrome status. Essential & Medivac flights may be accommodated with prior permission – please contact the aerodrome Duty Manager on 07944 809868.”
Main Hall Farm (near Cambridge) As of Thursday 28th May 2020, Main Hall Farm Airfield, Cambridge, is now OPEN again. PLEASE PPR.
Manston – Currently closed anyway, with plans to open as a Cargo Hub later in 2020 after plans from River Oak approved. Link is for Airport Supporter Site.
Maypole – Maypole Airfield (near Canterbury in Kent) is “closed except for emergency flights.” Airfield operator told GAAC on 22nd April 2020 that “Limited ‘essential’ flights are possible for residents in accordance with the latest CAA information.”
Newquay – Notice on website as of 25th March stated: “Our terminal is temporarily closed, with all scheduled flights to and from the Airport suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Aerodrome remains open to support vital services such as the Cornwall Air Ambulance, HM Coastguard Search and Rescue, and Military operations. Where possible our staff will be redeployed to support the wider response within Cornwall, through the Corserv group of companies.”
Newtownards – A COVID-19 Update Notice dated 23/03/2020 states: “Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic the Ulster Flying Club has taken the decision to close until further notice. The Committee, after consultation with medical advisers, club accounts, and in accordance with the recommendations of the U.K. and local governments, has decided that in the best interest of all staff, students, members, and the general public that the UFC will close until further notice. This decision has not been taken lightly as we have tried to maintain the training of students and provide the PPL members with the facility but unfortunately due to the severity of this virus and its continued progress, the committee has taken this action and decided to close.
North Weald – Closed apart from for emergency services.
Norwich – Airlines have various COVID-19 notices on the airport website. SaxonAir provides handling for business aviation. As of 25th March its website said (dated 6th March): “We are operating as normal whilst taking necessary measures to implement increased health and sanitary standards. If you have any concerns, please get in touch with us at ops@saxonair.com or phone our team on 01603 518 119.”
Nottingham – Both Nottingham Tatenhill and Tollerton are Closed.
Oban – Closed to GA (only operating for scheduled island flights).
Old Buckenham – Somewhat buried on the website is the notice: “COVID-19. SORRY BUT WE’RE COMPLETELY CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.”
Old Sarum – In early 2020 the airfield had opened again only for parachute dropping flights. However on 24th March a notice on the website stated: “Old Sarum Airfield is now closed to ALL movements.”
Old Warden – Website says closed until further notice due to waterlogging.
Otherton – One of the airfield directors, Alex Jermaine-Crowley, said on 25th March: “Like many others [Otherton] is unfortunately closed at present following the government announcement this week.”
Oxford – As of 24th March website stated: “COVID-19 Information: London Oxford Airport remains fully operational as per normal and intends to remain so for the foreseeable future. Any significant changes will be posted here and on social media sites (Twitter, LinkedIn). Should you need further clarification on any operational matters, call/e-mail OXF Operations on +44(0)1865 290 662 / ops@londonoxfordairport.com”
Pembrey – Nothing evident on website about COVID-19, as of March 24th.
Perranporth – Known to be closed as of 25th March but website does not yet say this.
Peterborough (Conington) – as of 24th March nothing on website about COVID-19.
Popham – GAAC visited on 28th May. Airfield reopened on Sunday 24th May and is now open 10am – 5pm, 7 days a week. Please see website for further details and to PPR. Pilots please note noise abatement as there have already been complaints about aircraft flying straight out on runway 26 and straight in on runway 08, over-flying the noise-sensitive areas. Departing 26 requires a 275-degree track and arriving 08 requires reciprocal for arrival to fly north of bungalow; For departing 08 use 050 track from upwind end and final Runway 26 dogleg to stay north of the petrol filling station on the A303. As always, please check airfield website, procedures in latest guides and NOTAMS.
Redhill – Redhill Aerodrome is OPEN and has remained open through the crisis with limited flying. Aerodrome management issued a notice on 15th May acknowledging the new Government Guidelines on a return to recreational flying. Redhill’s notice states among other things: “Pilots wishing to fly from Redhill between now and 31 May 2020 must obtain PPR for outbound and inbound flights, even if you are based at the Aerodrome. This should be done by email atc@redhillaerodrome.com or telephone 01737 821802. Email is the preferred means of contact.”
Retford (Gamston) – As of 24th March, no mention of COVID-19.
Rochester – website says: “24th March 2020. Following recent events the airport is now shut for recreational flights and visitors. We are, however, remaining with a skeleton crew for refuelling essential public service flights. This will be reviewed and we will be following published guidelines. Thank you for your understanding and keep safe out there!”
Sandown – As of 24th March there was nothing on the airport website about COVID-19.
Sandtoft – Nothing on airfield website as of 31st March about COVID-19.
Seething – As of 24th March there was nothing on the airport website about COVID-19 apart from a notice stating: “Unfortunately, there will not be a Seething Airfield Charity Airday this year.”
Sherburn-in-Elmet – Website states: “CORONAVIRUS COVID-19 STATUS AS OF 22/03/2020. THE AIRFIELD IS NOW CLOSED FOR ALL FLIGHT TRAINING AND SELF HIRE. WE ARE OPERATING AS AN UNLICENCED AIRFIELD WITH NO FIRE COVER. ONLY EMERGENGY / POLICE / MILITARY FLIGHTS WILL BE ACCEPTED. WE ARE CLOSED TO VISITORS ARRIVING BY AIR OR FOOT. ALL OTHER MOVEMENTS ARE BY STRICT PPR IN EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES ONLY.
Shobdon – Open to emergency services and military for fuel, etc. as per NOTAM.
Shoreham – Website notice on 24/03/2020 reads: “The Airfield remains available but with adjusted operational hours (0900 – 1900) from the 24th March, for necessary flights and to support essential emergency services as required. Staffing levels have been reduced to minimum with social distancing measures applied. We have reduced Fire Cover – CAT 1, but may accommodate CAT 2 movements on request subject to 24hrs notice. We continue to operate under Prior Permission Required (PPR) rules. The Terminal building, including the café, is closed to visitors until further notice. JET A1 and AVGAS remain available but with card payment only. Pilots are reminded to monitor NOTAMs for the latest updates. Thank you for your cooperation and please continue to follow all Government advice during these difficult times. If you have to fly, please stay safe.”
Sleap – Nothing yet stated about COVID-19 plans on airfield website (As of 25th March).
Southend – London Southend Airport did not seem to have anything about COVID-19 on its website as of 25th March but seems to be open still as it has some commercial (easyJet) services running. The airline has grounded most of its UK fleet but is running flights to bring British people back from other countries / repatriation flights.
Stapleford – Message on website posted 24th March from head of training Colin Dobney says: “It is with regret that following the Government directive of 23rd March 2020 we will be closing Stapeford Flight Centre airfield for as long as the current restrictions are in place. Clubhouse facilities are also closed for foreseeable future. We will be reviewing the situation daily, and as soon as we get an easing of the current situation we will re-open the airfield for flying operations. We will of course post updates on this webpage to advise accordingly. Feel free to email Captain Colin Dobney (moc.cfsylf@yenbodniloc) if you have any questions. We will do our best to answer.”
St Athan – was transferred on 1st April 2019 from the MoD to civilian airport owned and operated by Cardiff Airport and the Welsh Government. NATS took over ATC early April 2020.
Stornoway – See Inverness (HIAL)
Stow Maries – WWI historic airfield, no mention of COVID-19 on site as of 25th March 2020.
Sturgate – Deputy Airport Manager told GAAC on 31st March that the airfield and Lincoln Aero Club are “closed until further notice.”
Sumburgh – See Inverness (HIAL)
Swansea – A pop-up on the website as at 25th March said: “FLY SWANSEA.
We aim to help the most vulnerable and those who have been hit the hardest by the current restrictions placed on us for the greater good.” It invited visitors to donate to a COVID-19 fund.
Sywell – NOTAM issued 3rd April 2020 lasting to the end of the month says “Aerodrome not available to aircraft requiring the use of a licensed aerodrome. AFIS and RFFS not available.”
Tatenhill – Nothing evident on website on 25th March relating to COVID-19.
Thruxton – Posted Notice on 24th March in ‘What’s On’ section of site stating: “Due to the Coronavirus and following Government orders Thruxton Airport is closed until further notice. Please check in a few weeks either this website or NOTAMS to see when we are open again.”
Tiree – Closed apart for scheduled flights. See also under Inverness (HIAL)
Turweston – Was closed (except for essential services) by 19th March 2020 but a new post on the airfield’s website on 16th May said it is now OPEN, with conditions. Cafe has a takeaway service. Please see their website for more information. In summary, it states that “flights of home-based and visiting aircraft are permitted under the government and CAA guidelines… Visiting pilots please email tower@turwestonflight.com or complete the PPR form providing date of visit, aircraft registration, field of departure, ETA, ETD, and refuelling requirements.”
Wellesbourne Mountford – News & Events tab on website repeats NOTAM: “FROM 20/03/24 09:00 TO 20/04/14 09:00 AERODROME CLOSED TO ALL NON-ESSENTIAL MOVEMENTS. TO ARRANGE FUEL OR AFIS FOR ANY ESSENTIAL MOVEMENTS CONTACT 01789 842007 OR 07860 816196.”
Welshpool – As at 25th March there was nothing evident on the airport’s website about COVID-19.
White Waltham – Airfield was closed for some weeks from late March-early May 2020. Then following government’s easing of restrictions on 15th May it posted a notice stating: Airfield Re-Opening – “As many of you may have already seen the Government is now allowing recreational GA flying from English airfields as long as social distancing measures are strictly observed. In practice, this means solo flights only or flights where everyone is from the same household. PPL Training flights are, unfortunately, excluded from the easing of this restriction for the moment as social distancing measures still require people not from the same household to maintain two metres of separation, not something easily done in a PA28. The airfield will be re-opening for flights that meet the Government guidance from today, Saturday 16th May, the opening hours will be from 0830hrs until 1830hrs. For the moment the bar will remain closed but the rest of the facilities in the clubhouse will be available. All Booking In and Booking Out will be done in Flight Planning, please ensure you maintain social distancing at all times while in the clubhouse. The pumps are open and both account and credit cards are working. All hangared aircraft should be back on the ground by 1800hrs to ensure you get back into the hangar. If not, leave your aircraft outside and we will pack it away in the morning. Unfortunately, the use and or hire of West London Aero Club aeroplanes will not be available until next week. This will allow us time to ensure that a strict cleaning regime can be put in place. As some staff are still on furlough there may be a delay in any requests for aircraft out of hangars and on some occasions we may not be able to meet your request. Please bear with us as we get back to normal operation as quickly as possible.”
Wickenby – No COVID-19 mention on website as of 25th March.
Wick John O’Groats – See Inverness (HIAL)
Wolverhampton (Halfpenny Green) – Airfield informed GAAC on Thursday 4th June that the airport is now fully open at weekends 09.30 – 16.00hrs. Outside of this, an Out of Hours procedure is available subject to strict PPR and certain conditions (please check the airfield website and NOTAMs). Fuel is available at all times subject to the above and PPR.
IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION THAT CAN HELP US KEEP THIS LIST UP TO DATE AS RESTRICTIONS ARE GRADUALLY LIFTED, PLEASE E-MAIL gaac.alerts@gmail.com OR CALL IAN SHEPPARD on 07759 455770.