Aircraft Acceptance Park. That’s what Kenley Airfield was first known as in 1917. Imagine planes being tested and flown before heading to the Western Front. This year marks its centenary.
Kenley Airfield played a crucial role in both World Wars. Iconic aircraft like Spitfires and Hurricanes soared overhead. It was a vital hub for the Royal Flying Corps in World War I and the RAF in World War II. Kenley is located near Kenley on the edge of Greater London.
RAF Kenley played a significant role during the Battle of Britain. It was one of three RAF stations defending London. RAF Kenley was a frontline operation military airfield between 1917 and 1959. RAF Fighter Command then left the aerodrome.
In August 1939, Kenley underwent significant reconstruction. This prepared it for new aircraft like the Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire. Old hangars were torn down and concrete runways built. Fuel storage increased and a dedicated armoury was added. This construction finished in early 1940.
Kenley suffered heavy damage on August 18, 1940. Two hangars were destroyed. Ten aircraft were also destroyed including six Hurricanes. Runways were cratered by bombs. The Sector Operations Room moved to an emergency site.
Hammond Innes wrote about his experiences as a gunner at RAF Kenley. His book Attack Alarm vividly describes the station and attacks in 1940. Many units were based here. No. 1 Squadron RAF was here. No. 3 Squadron RAF was here too.
Many famous pilots served at Kenley Airfield. This included South African fighter ace “Sailor” Malan. Group Captain P. H. “Dutch” Hugo also served here. C. W. A. Scott, the MacRobertson Air Race winner, was stationed here. British ace JE “Johnnie” Johnson commanded the Canadian wing at Kenley in 1943. P/O Arthur Gerald Donahue, an American pilot, flew from Kenley. He was shot down but returned to service.
Though few buildings remain, Kenley is well-preserved. English Heritage calls it “The most complete fighter airfield”. Croydon and Tandridge councils designated it a conservation area in 2006.
Eleven blast pens remain. One has been fully restored as a memorial backdrop. Since 2004, these are protected monuments. A memorial honors Commonwealth and Allied aircrews. The inscription reads “RAF Kenley Tribute in Honour of All Personnel Who Served Here 1917–1959”.
Kenley Airfield appeared in films like Angels One Five and Reach for the Sky. Douglas Bader, who was later posted to RAF Kenley, featured in the latter.
Today, RAF Kenley hosts 615 Volunteer Gliding Squadron. It is a government aerodrome regulated by the Military Aviation Authority. Flying follows military regulations.
At the memorial’s base is a famous quote. “Never in the field of human conflict, has so much been owed by so many to so few”. These words by Winston Churchill commemorate the Battle of Britain.
The airfield is next to the HQ of 450 Kenley Air Cadets. The Ministry of Defence and Surrey Hills Gliding Club use the airfield for gliders. Powered aircraft are not allowed.
Kenley Airfield stands as a reminder of courage. It also serves as a testament to the dedication of those who defended our skies.