Livingstone Airstrip

Military demobilization following the end of World War II. The airstrip was a purpose-built heavy bomber base constructed for the specific strategic needs of the Pacific War. With the cessation of hostilities, the base became redundant and was no longer required by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) or the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). It was not economically viable to convert or maintain it for civilian use.

The site is abandoned and derelict. The main runway, taxiways, and aircraft parking revetments are still clearly visible from the air and on the ground, but they are heavily weathered, cracked, and overgrown with vegetation. The land is a designated heritage site on the Northern Territory Heritage Register, recognizing its WWII significance. It is not used for any official aviation purposes. The area is sometimes visited by history enthusiasts, photographers, and 4WD clubs, but it is unmaintained and there are no public facilities. The ICAO code 'AU-0501' is an unofficial, non-standard identifier used in some databases and is not recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Livingstone Airstrip was one of the most significant Allied air bases in Northern Australia during WWII. Constructed in late 1942 and early 1943 by US and Australian engineering units, it was designed as a major heavy bomber base to keep aircraft dispersed and safe from Japanese air raids that targeted Darwin. Its primary user was the USAAF 380th Bombardment Group (Heavy), known as the 'Flying Circus', which operated a large fleet of B-24 Liberator bombers. From Livingstone, these bombers conducted long-range strategic missions against key Japanese targets in the Netherlands East Indies (now Indonesia), including oil refineries, airfields, and shipping. These operations were crucial in disrupting the Japanese war effort. The base featured a 2,130-meter (7,000 ft) sealed runway and an extensive network of taxiways and over 50 aircraft hardstands, making it one of the largest and most capable airfields in the region at the time.

None. There are no known plans or prospects for reopening Livingstone Airstrip. The infrastructure is in a complete state of disrepair and would require a total reconstruction, which is economically unfeasible. Its strategic military purpose is obsolete, and the region is well-served by Darwin International Airport (YPDN) for major commercial and military operations, as well as smaller airfields for general aviation. Its status as a protected heritage site would also present significant challenges to any redevelopment.