RAF Boxted

The closure was a direct result of the end of World War II. RAF Boxted was a temporary wartime airfield, and with the massive demobilization and reduction of Allied air forces in Europe, it was deemed surplus to post-war military requirements. It was one of hundreds of such airfields across the UK that were closed and returned to other uses.

The former airfield site has largely been returned to agricultural use, with fields covering much of the original layout. However, significant remnants of its past are still visible, including sections of the main runway, perimeter tracks, and several Nissen huts and other wartime buildings. A portion of the site is now the Boxted Airfield Industrial Estate. The history of the base is actively preserved by the Boxted Airfield Museum, located on-site in a restored wartime Nissen hut. A memorial dedicated to the American and British personnel who served at the airfield also stands at the site, ensuring its legacy is not forgotten.

RAF Boxted (USAAF Station AAF-150) holds significant historical importance as a major US Army Air Forces (USAAF) base during World War II. Constructed in 1942-43 as a Class A bomber airfield, it initially hosted the 386th Bombardment Group flying Martin B-26 Marauder medium bombers from June to September 1943. Its primary fame, however, comes from the distinguished fighter groups that operated from its runways. The 354th Fighter Group, known as the 'Pioneer Mustangs', arrived in November 1943 and were the first unit to fly the legendary North American P-51 Mustang in the European Theater of Operations, providing crucial long-range escort for heavy bombers. In April 1944, they were replaced by the 56th Fighter Group, 'Zemke's Wolfpack', flying the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt. The 56th FG became the top-scoring American fighter group in the ETO, credited with destroying over 1,000 enemy aircraft. The base was home to many of the USAAF's top aces, including Francis 'Gabby' Gabreski, Robert S. Johnson, and their commander, Hubert 'Hub' Zemke. The airfield played a vital role in achieving air superiority over Europe, supporting the D-Day landings, and contributing to the eventual Allied victory.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening RAF Boxted as an operational airport. The land is privately owned and has been repurposed for agriculture, light industry, and historical preservation. The infrastructure is largely dismantled or derelict, and its historical significance is now commemorated by a museum and memorial rather than active flight operations. The ICAO code GB-0131 is an unofficial identifier and does not denote any current or future aviation status.