Ashbourne flying sites
Note: This map gives the location of the WW2 airfield.
ASHBOURNE see also RODSLEY
ASHBOURNE: Temporary aerodrome
Operated by: Berkshire Aviation Co
Location: ?
Period of operation: October 1921
NOTES: Having visited this area it really is very tempting to conclude that this site was probably the same as the WW2 RAF aerodrome listed below as it seems the most suitable location for those intent on committing aviation. But experience has now taught me to be very careful about making such ‘quick & easy’ assumptions.
ASHBOURNE: Private airstrip
Runway: 15/33 grass
NOTE: Info source AAIB report EW/G2006/11/05. Is anything more known?
ASHBOURNE: Military aerodrome later civil private aerodrome
Note: Pictures by the author unless specified.
Military user: WW2: RAF 38 (Airborne Forces) Group
42 OTU [Operational Training Unit] (Avro Ansons/Armstrong Whitworth Whitleys/Bristol Blenheims)
81 OTU (Vickers Wellingtons)
Location: Between A517 & A52, 1nm SE of Asbourne, 8nm NW of Derby
Period of operation: 1942 to today (The RAF closed military operations in 1954)
Runways: WW2: 14/32 1828x46 hard 09/27 1280x46 hard
02/20 1280x46 hard
2003: Details unknown
NOTES: In WW2 the runway surfaces were described as being concrete and wood chippings. In later years much of the southern area was developed as an industrial estate still incorporating use of at least some of the original four T2 hangars. However, in 2003 I did spot some GA light aircraft operating here.
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