History Of Biggin Hill Airport: Its Age And More

London Biggin Hill Airport is a minor commercial airport in the London Borough of Bromley, located 14 miles south-east of Central London. The airport was formerly a Royal Air Force station, RAF Biggin Hill, and played a crucial role in the Second World War, serving as one of the principal fighter bases protecting London and South East England from German bombers during the Battle of Britain. The airfield was originally opened by the Royal Flying Corps during the First World War and became an operational fighter station in 1917. Today, London Biggin Hill Airport is a dedicated business aviation airport, handling private aviation and large business jets.

London Biggin Hill Airport's history as RAF Biggin Hill

London Biggin Hill Airport has a long history as RAF Biggin Hill, dating back to the First World War. The airport was originally opened by the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) in 1916 to conduct wireless experiments, with the RFC transferring its operations there in 1917. During this period, nearby grounds were requisitioned for use as a radio transmitter and fighter ground control station, with the station playing a crucial role in defending London against attacks by Zeppelins and Gotha bombers.

In the interwar years, the airfield was extended and used by various experimental units working on instrument design, ground-based anti-aircraft defences, and night flying. In 1936, Biggin Hill came under Fighter Command as part of Britain's Home Defence Force, and it played a key role in the development of radar technology.

During the Second World War, RAF Biggin Hill served as one of the principal fighter bases protecting London and South East England during the Battle of Britain. Supermarine Spitfires and Hawker Hurricanes from multiple squadrons were based at the airfield, and over the course of the war, they claimed to have destroyed 1,400 enemy aircraft. The airfield was a crucial part of Fighter Command's 11 Group, defending London and the South-East. However, due to its strategic importance, the airfield also became a target, suffering twelve attacks between August 1940 and January 1941, resulting in significant casualties and damage.

Post-war, Biggin Hill continued to be used by the RAF, first as a base for transport and fighter squadrons, and later as the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. In the 1950s, with the closure of the nearby Croydon Airport, Biggin Hill became a joint civilian and military airport, though military operations gradually decreased. In 1958, it ceased to be an operational RAF station.

In 1974, the airport was purchased by the London Borough of Bromley, and in 1994, it was leased to Biggin Hill Airport Limited, marking the end of active RAF involvement. Today, while the airport primarily serves civilian aviation, a small enclave on the western boundary still retains the RAF designation, commemorating the airfield's rich history and the sacrifices made during the Second World War.

The airport's role in the Battle of Britain

London Biggin Hill Airport, formerly known as RAF Biggin Hill, played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain during World War II. Here is a detailed account of its role in this historic battle:

The Strategic Location:

Biggin Hill Airport, located 14 miles south-southeast of Central London, was strategically positioned to defend the capital and southeast England from German Luftwaffe bombers. Its location made it a vital link in the Dowding System, coordinating fighter operations through a network of radar stations, observer corps, and control rooms.

Fighter Squadrons and Sorties:

During the Battle of Britain, Biggin Hill was home to several illustrious squadrons, including No. 32, No. 79, and No. 610 Squadrons. Iconic Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane fighters took off from its grasslands, engaging in fierce dogfights with German planes. Between July and October 1940, Biggin Hill squadrons flew an impressive 3,561 sorties, claiming 396 enemy aircraft destroyed.

A Target for the Luftwaffe:

Due to its strategic importance, the airfield became a prime target for the Luftwaffe. Between August 1940 and January 1941, it suffered 12 direct attacks, which resulted in the loss of infrastructure and lives. Despite the heavy damage, Biggin Hill remained operational throughout the battle, symbolizing British resilience and defiance.

Innovations and Tactics:

Biggin Hill was not only a base for fighter planes but also a hub for technological advancements. The Chain Home radar system was refined here, providing early warnings of incoming Luftwaffe raids. Additionally, the airfield played a pivotal role in developing night-fighter tactics, with a Biggin Hill Blenheim fighter achieving the first successful radar interception of an enemy aircraft at night on July 22, 1940.

Human Stories and Camaraderie:

Beyond the statistics and technology, Biggin Hill was also a place of human resilience and camaraderie. Local residents opened their homes to RAF personnel, offering respite from war. Women of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) worked tirelessly alongside medical staff, led by Matron Elspeth Henderson, to support operations and tend to the wounded. Their acts of kindness and the unbreakable bond formed during adversity were integral to the battle effort.

Post-War Transformation:

As the war concluded, Biggin Hill transformed once more. In 1946, it welcomed its first civil aviation company, Air Enterprises Ltd., marking its transition into a commercial airport. Today, London Biggin Hill Airport is a thriving hub for aviation, hosting various operators and contributing significantly to the local economy.

The airport continues to honour its history and the sacrifices made by dedicating spaces like the St. George's RAF Chapel of Remembrance and the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum, ensuring that the legacy of those who served and the impact of the airport during the Battle of Britain are forever preserved.

The airport's current status as a minor commercial airport

London Biggin Hill Airport is a minor commercial airport serving Biggin Hill in the London Borough of Bromley. It is located 12 nautical miles (22km, or 14 miles) south-southeast of Central London. The airport was formerly a Royal Air Force station, and a small enclave on the airport still retains that designation.

Biggin Hill Airport currently specialises in general aviation, handling a wide range of traffic, from private aviation to large business jets. The airport has a CAA Ordinary Licence (Number P804) that allows flights for the public transport of passengers or for flying instruction as authorised by the licensee (Regional Airports Limited). The airport is not currently permitted to operate scheduled airline services, nor are flights using the airport regularly allowed to carry fare-paying passengers.

The airport has one runway (03/21), which is 1,820 metres in length, making it usable by aircraft up to Boeing 737/Airbus A320 size. The airport also has an Instrument Landing System. Radar air traffic control services are provided by Thames Radar at the London Terminal Control Centre, while procedural approach and VFR ATC services are provided by the airport itself.

Despite the ban on scheduled services, Biggin Hill is used by a large number of business flights by business jets and similar-sized aircraft. The airport has a passenger terminal, located on the A233 road just south of Leaves Green, which provides facilities for such flights, including departure lounges, a licensed café bar, and customs and immigration facilities.

The airport is host to a wide range of private and business jet and turboprop aircraft up to the size of a Boeing 737. The airport has been enlarged and improved in the 21st century, and as of 2020, further expansion was planned.

The airport's flying schools

London Biggin Hill Airport is a minor commercial airport serving Biggin Hill in the London Borough of Bromley. It was formerly a Royal Air Force station, RAF Biggin Hill, and played a crucial role during the Second World War as one of the principal fighter bases defending London and South East England from German Luftwaffe bombers.

Today, the airport offers a range of services, including private and business aviation, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance. The airport is also known for its flying schools, which have been training pilots for many years. Here is some detailed information about the airport's flying schools:

The airport is home to several renowned flying schools, including EFG Flying School, which has been operating since 1947, and the Falcon Flight Training Academy, which offers professional pilot training. These schools provide a range of courses, such as the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Flight Instructor Certificate (FIC), and Multi-engine Piston Rating (MEP).

The EFG Flying School, in particular, has a rich history, with over 75 years of experience in training pilots. It is conveniently located around 40 minutes from central London and 20 minutes from the M25 motorway. The school offers a comprehensive and dedicated corporate environment, ensuring students gain the necessary skills to work as professional pilots.

The Falcon Flight Training Academy, on the other hand, provides access to highly skilled instructors in the UK and Spain through its partnership with EASA ATO, Aerodynamics Academy. This partnership allows students to develop their skills in a professional and international setting.

Aircraft and Training

The flying schools at Biggin Hill Airport utilise various aircraft for training purposes. The most commonly used two-seater aircraft is the Cessna 152, while the Piper Archer is the most popular choice for four-seater training. The schools also provide larger aircraft, such as the Embraer, for more advanced training.

The training programmes are comprehensive and cover all aspects of aviation. For example, the Falcon Flying Group offers a range of services, including commercial and private pilot training, instrument meteorological conditions training, and flight instructor training. Additionally, they provide aircraft cleaning services and emergency locator transmitter maintenance.

Historical Significance

Biggin Hill Airport has a rich history, especially during the Second World War. It served as a crucial fighter base during the Battle of Britain, with Supermarine Spitfires and Hawker Hurricanes from various squadrons based there. The squadrons claimed to have destroyed 1,400 enemy aircraft during the war, but this came at a significant cost, with 453 Biggin Hill-based aircrew losing their lives.

The airport continues to honour its history through restoration projects at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar. Additionally, the airport offers experiences such as flying alongside a Mk9 Spitfire in a 1950s Harvard, providing a unique opportunity to connect with its past.

The airport's future expansion plans

London Biggin Hill Airport has been undergoing expansion and improvements since the 21st century. As of 2020, further expansion was planned, with the airport aiming to secure its future as a world-class business aviation centre of excellence.

The airport's managing director, Will Curtis, has stated that introducing a new GPS landing system would bring benefits to all residents living around the airport. The new system is expected to reduce the number of flights over certain residential areas and make flights quieter. However, residents' groups such as Flightpath Watch have expressed concerns that longer operating hours and flight path changes could attract noisier and larger aircraft.

The airport has attracted significant investment and is now home to over 70 companies employing more than 1,700 people. Resident companies include major tech innovators Bombardier and F1. The airport has also invested in new hangars and infrastructure, making it ideal for small jets like the A319CJ.

The future of the airport will combine established industries with modern standards and new industries utilising new technologies. The airport plans to introduce electric aircraft, which are expected to complement and eventually replace helicopters and light aircraft. The airport also aims to improve sustainability by reducing emissions and operating as a cleaner and greener business.

London Biggin Hill Airport is committed to working with local residents and community groups to address any concerns and improve access for users and residents.

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