South Carnduff Farm
Note: This map is only my estimation of where this site was located
SOUTH CARNDUFF FARM: Private airstrip/airfield
Note: This picture was obtained from Google Earth ©
Operated by: The Rutherglen Flying Group
Location: Just N of the later STRATHAVEN airfield, roughly 3nm NW of Strathaven town centre
Period of operation: Probably around 1957 and a bit later
NOTES: This information came from a most excellent and informative article by Igor Best-Devereux in the April 2021 edition of Light Aviation magazine, regarding the history of the three Druine D.5 Turbi types that were built from plans by the members of the newly formed PFA (Popular Flying Association). These being; G-APFA, G-AOTK and G-APBO.
It appears that whilst being mostly built in the loft of a Glasgow joinery company, it was soon realised that it, G-APBO, would need to be assembled and flown. But where? It seems an arrangement was made to use a field, and construct a hangar on South Carnduff Farm. And indeed, final assembly and the first test flights were conducted here. Indeed, it is entirely possible that club members also got their first fllghts in G-APBO from this location, before the move was made to the newly opened STRATHAVEN airfield just to the south.
Notes: We have to thank Mr Graham Frost, a great friend of this 'Guide' for discovering this picture of G-APBO at this location. Hopefully not subject to copyright limitations?
The early post WW2 history of the ULAA and PFA is of immense importance to the development of light aviation in the U.K. So often trail-blazing major reforms as to how light aircraft can be managed and regulated.
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