6 January 2015
A fly-in was held at at Church Fenton Airfield on the first weekend in January to celebrate the official handover of RAF Church Fenton to Makin Enterprises. 250 aircraft flew in and 800 people visited on foot.
With more than 70 years of service, RAF Church Fenton was regarded as one of Britain’s most important airfields, and Makin Enterprises has stated an aim to continue that status. Owner Chris Makin has said he intends to develop the site as a base for private aircraft and passenger flights by small airlines. Although the Royal Air Force operations ended in 2013, Makin hopes to bring a passionate new ownership with a thirst for all things aviation and aims to ensure its operational days remain long and plentiful.
He explained, “The fly-in was to let people know why we are here and that Church Fenton will remain an airfield. It will create jobs, community, local economic growth, and fuel the aviation sector in the North of England.”
He added, “The support and congratulations from the public and all attending pilots has been overwhelming. We knew people would want the airfield to retain its flying status, and we’re pleased that we’ll be able to provide just that.”
(Picture: Mick Kirkman)
