As of Wednesday 11th March all flying was suspended at RAF Henlow.
The RAF Aerodrome Manager (providing oversight on safety etc) has been posted away and the RAF cannot supply an alternative as the position has become redundant.
Henlow Flying Club (HFC) have applied to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to operate the airfield, but need the MoD, as landowner, to agree.
The MoD have DIO and Homes England as agents for redevelopment once the RAF has moved out. It seems that DIO and Homes England do not want any usage on the north site, as this will inhibit redevelopment options, including the potential of a large number of residential units on airfield land.
This is in spite of the CAA’s positive position on licensing the airfield to HFC, DIO will not allow them to operate aircraft under its agreement.
Central Bedfordshire Council’s strategy for the north site is to keep the airfield open and encourage employment opportunities particularly in the high tech/aerospace sectors. They are the planning authority that would rule on any redevelopment proposals.
DIO continue to send HFC invoices for the use of the airfield and its facilities but doesn’t allow them to operate aircraft to earn money to pay their invoices.
All aircraft owners who have aircraft based there will have one day over each of the next 3 months to fly their aircraft out.
We would welcome your input on the situation and the potential impact of the redevelopment of RAF Henlow site.
Please feel free to contact your Parish Council or CBC Ward Councillor with your input.