Cotswold Airport, also known as Kemble Airport, is a private airfield located near Kemble in Gloucestershire, England. It was originally an RAF (Royal Air Force) station, known as RAF Kemble, and played an important role in the 20th century as a maintenance base for the British military. Today, it operates as a civilian airport and serves various purposes, including aircraft storage, maintenance, and private flights.
Here are some highlights about Cotswold Airport:
1. Aircraft Storage and Dismantling
- Cotswold Airport is a notable location for aircraft storage and dismantling, particularly for large commercial jets. Its facilities are well-suited to accommodate the increasing number of aircraft requiring storage, particularly during the pandemic when demand for air travel decreased.
Dismantling
Storage
2. General Aviation
- The airport supports a range of general aviation activities, including private flights, flying schools, and aviation events. Pilots can use Cotswold Airport as a base for private or chartered flights, and it has facilities for fueling, maintenance, and hangar space.
3. Events and Film Location
- Due to its large open spaces and accessibility, Cotswold Airport is often used as a filming location for television, films, and advertisements. It has also hosted various events, including air shows and car shows, given its extensive runway and facilities.
4. MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) Services
- The airport provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, and several aviation companies use it as a base for maintenance operations on various aircraft.
5. Historical Interest
As a former RAF base, Cotswold Airport retains much of its historical architecture and ambiance, making it an attraction for aviation enthusiasts interested in the RAF’s legacy.
6. Future Expansion and Development
- The airport management has plans to develop Cotswold Airport further, potentially adding more aviation services and facilities.
Though it doesn’t operate commercial passenger flights, Cotswold Airport plays an essential role in the UK aviation industry, especially in aircraft recycling and storage.
Photos Rob Vogelaar
