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London's historic military airfield serving VIP and government flights.
Opened
1915
Location
Northolt, Greater London, United Kingdom
RAF Northolt is a Royal Air Force station located in the London Borough of Hillingdon, approximately 13 miles west of central London. It is the United Kingdom's primary military airfield in the Greater London area and serves as a key facility for VIP, government, and royal flights.
The airfield has a distinguished history dating back to World War I and played a critical role in the Battle of Britain during World War II. Today it operates under joint civil-military use, handling private, charter, and official government aircraft alongside its RAF functions.
Northolt is managed by the RAF but also handles limited civilian business aviation traffic under strict permissions. It is frequently used for visiting heads of state, senior government officials, and members of the British Royal Family.
Terminals
The airfield has limited passenger handling facilities designed primarily for VIP, government, and business aviation rather than commercial airline operations.
Getting to & from
RAF Northolt is accessible by road via the A40, and the nearest London Underground station is South Ruislip on the Central line, providing rail connections to central London.
Airlines here
No commercial airlines operate scheduled services from RAF Northolt; it is used by private charter operators, government aircraft, and the RAF's No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron.
Notable facts
- ›RAF Northolt is the oldest operational RAF station in the world, having opened in 1915.
- ›No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron is based here and provides air transport for the Royal Family and senior government ministers.
- ›The airfield played a pivotal role in the Battle of Britain in 1940, serving as a key fighter base defending London.
- ›It holds a limited civilian licence allowing private and charter flights subject to RAF approval.
- ›The Polish Air Force had a significant presence at Northolt during World War II, and a Polish war memorial stands on the site.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
