Remember the name Paris-Saclay-Versailles Airport. It echoes with tales of daring flights and historical shifts. The airport supports general aviation. No commercial airline service is scheduled here.
Paris-Saclay-Versailles Airport is not just a modern airfield. It is one of the oldest in France. Its story began in 1907. The airport has witnessed over a century of aviation history.
During World War I the French Air Force used it. Later, in World War II, the airfield played a role. In June 1940, German forces seized it during the Battle of France. Sturzkampfgeschwader 77 a Luftwaffe dive bombing wing used it. They flew Junkers Ju 87 Stukas and Dornier Do 17 light bombers. This was between December 1940 and March 1941.
Allied ground forces liberated Paris-Saclay-Versailles Airport around August 28 1944. This was during the Northern France Campaign. The United States Army Air Force quickly cleared the airport. They removed mines and destroyed Luftwaffe aircraft. They built a temporary runway. Toussus-le-Noble Airport became a USAAF combat airfield designated A-46.
The 67th Tactical Reconnaissance Group was assigned here. They flew photo-reconnaissance aircraft until late September 1944. Afterward, it became a resupply and casualty evacuation airfield. Liaison aircraft connected to Allied headquarters in Paris also used it. The Americans gave full control back to the French on August 8 1945.
A tragic event struck on January 2 1945. Admiral Bertram Ramsay died when his plane crashed on takeoff. He was heading to a conference with Field Marshal Montgomery in Brussels.
Post-war, the airport was rebuilt. The temporary runway became permanent. A second runway and expanded ground facilities were added.
The airport officially changed its name. On February 16 2024, it became Aérodrome de Paris – Saclay – Versailles.
Today Paris-Saclay-Versailles Airport operates with modern facilities. These include a control tower fuel provider and terminal. There are also forty hangars. The airport covers 166 hectares. It features two runways for various aircraft.
TotalEnergies Aviation offers energy solutions here. This includes Sustainable Aviation Fuel UL AERO SUPER + and electric charging.
Paris-Saclay-Versailles Airport is more than just runways and hangars. It’s a vibrant hub. It is a place where aviation history meets sustainable innovation. As we conclude our visit consider its rich past and bright future.