Elmsett Airfield serves Ipswich, Suffolk, GB.
Elmsett Airfield (EGST) in Ipswich, Suffolk, GB, is largely regarded by pilots and visitors as a friendly, quiet, and well-maintained grass airfield, offering a positive experience for general aviation, flight training, and flying experiences. It is often described as one of Suffolk's "best kept secrets" and visitors generally report high satisfaction with its operational aspects and welcoming atmosphere.
What Travelers Love
- Friendly and Welcoming Atmosphere: Visitors consistently highlight the friendly welcome and pleasant, quiet environment at the airfield.
- Well-Maintained Grass Runway: The airfield features a well-maintained grass runway (05/23, 850m x 26m) that includes runway edge lighting and APAIs, allowing for operations beyond daylight hours.
- Comprehensive Facilities for a Small Airfield: Despite being unlicensed, Elmsett offers amenities often found at larger airfields, including hangarage (by negotiation), outside grass parking with hard tie-down points, and readily available AVGAS and oil.
- On-site Aircraft Maintenance: The presence of Aero Anglia, a well-regarded independent aviation maintenance company, provides convenient and professional services for aircraft based at or visiting the airfield.
- Ideal for Flight Training and Experiences: The airfield is a popular spot for flying lessons, aerobatic experiences, and microlight flights, making it suitable for budding pilots and those seeking adventure.
- Good Accessibility and Local Support: Situated close to Ipswich, the airfield is easily accessible by road, with recommended local taxi services available. Its location within the Wattisham Military Aerodrome Traffic Zone (MATZ) is managed with good relations, and Wattisham Approach is noted as helpful for navigation.
Common Complaints / Points to be Aware Of:
- Unlicensed Airfield Status: Pilots should note that Elmsett is an unlicensed airfield, which requires adherence to specific procedures and regulations for safe operations.
- Wattisham MATZ Procedures: While helpful, operating within the Wattisham MATZ requires pilots to coordinate with Wattisham Approach and call for PPR (Prior Permission Required) after reviewing noise abatement procedures.
- Noise Abatement Compliance: Pilots are requested to familiarize themselves with noise abatement procedures to ensure good relations with local residents, particularly avoiding overflying villages and adhering to circuit patterns.
- No METAR Directly from Airfield: Elmsett Airfield does not publish its own METAR (aviation weather report); pilots must rely on the nearest weather station, Wattisham Airfield, which is 6.0 km away.
- Recent Aircraft Incidents: There was a light aircraft crash in August 2024 at Elmsett Airfield, where an aircraft overran the runway, though both occupants were uninjured. This incident is under investigation. Another crash was mentioned for August last year.
Elmsett Airfield offers a welcoming and well-supported environment for general aviation, particularly appealing to those seeking flight training and experience flights in a picturesque countryside setting. While pilots need to be mindful of its unlicensed status and MATZ procedures, the overall sentiment points to a positive and enjoyable experience.
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Where is Elmsett Airfield located?
Elmsett Airfield is located in Ipswich, Suffolk, GB, at an elevation of 246 ft. Its IATA code is — and ICAO code is EGST.