Eastleigh Aerodrome

Eastleigh Aerodrome. Located in the borough of Eastleigh in Hampshire, England, this general aviation airfield has a significant history intertwined with the development of British aviation. Originally opened in the 1930s, it served as a vital municipal airport for Southampton and played a notable role during the Second World War. Today, it operates as a busy hub for private flying, flight training, and aviation maintenance, retaining its historic character while supporting modern aerial activities.

History

The aerodrome was officially opened in July 1932 by the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Edward Cooper, acting on behalf of the Southampton Corporation. Its early years saw it operate as Southampton Municipal Airport, with regular services by airlines like Jersey Airways to destinations including Heston Aerodrome and the Channel Islands. The site was requisitioned by the Air Ministry in 1939, becoming RAF Eastleigh under the control of RAF Fighter Command. During the Battle of Britain and the wider war, it was a key satellite airfield for RAF Tangmere and hosted squadrons flying the Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane. Post-war, it reverted to civilian use, with notable tenants including the Air Training Corps and the manufacturing firm Folland Aircraft, which developed the Folland Gnat jet trainer there. Ownership was transferred from the Southampton City Council to the Eastleigh Borough Council in the late 20th century.

Facilities

The airfield features a single, grass runway (04/22) approximately 800 meters in length, suitable for light aircraft and helicopters. A modern control tower provides air traffic services for the uncontrolled airspace. The main apron and hangar complex supports several flying schools, maintenance organizations, and private aircraft operators. Key infrastructure includes the headquarters of the Solent Airport business park, which promotes aviation-linked enterprises. Notable based organizations are the Army Air Corps Middle Wallop detachment and the Historic Aircraft Flight Museum. Fuel services are available, and the site includes workshops for Cessna and Piper Aircraft maintenance.

Operations

Primary activities include general aviation flight training conducted by schools such as Skyborne Air Academy and Hamble Flying Club. The aerodrome is a base for private business aviation and aerial work, including aerial photography and surveying. It hosts regular fly-ins and air shows, most notably the annual Eastleigh Airshow, which attracts vintage aircraft like the de Havilland Tiger Moth. The facility is also used for Royal Navy and British Army liaison flights and supports the operations of the National Police Air Service. Maintenance and overhaul services are provided by companies specializing in Lycoming Engines and Continental Motors aircraft powerplants.

Accidents and incidents

On 21 September 1940, a Boulton Paul Defiant of No. 264 Squadron RAF crashed on approach following a combat sortie, killing the air gunner. A notable post-war accident occurred in August 1955 when a Fairey Firefly of the Royal Australian Navy overshot the runway during a display, resulting in a fatal fire. In July 1973, a Beagle Pup collided with power lines on final approach in poor visibility, causing two fatalities. A more recent incident in June 2008 involved a Robinson R44 helicopter making a forced landing in a nearby field following a reported loss of power, with minor injuries to the pilot. These events are recorded in archives of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.

In popular culture

The aerodrome's historic hangars and control tower were used as a filming location for the 2017 war film *Dunkirk*, directed by Christopher Nolan, standing in for a 1940s Royal Air Force airfield. It featured in episodes of the BBC television series *Coast*, discussing its wartime role in the Defence of the Realm. The airfield and its classic aircraft have been depicted in several aviation documentaries, including those broadcast on Sky History. It also serves as the setting for scenes in the novel *The Last Flight* by Julie Clark, and its annual airshow is frequently covered by BBC South Today.