RAF Gosfield

Military Downsizing. RAF Gosfield was constructed as a temporary wartime airfield. Following the end of World War II, it was deemed surplus to the requirements of the post-war Royal Air Force. The Air Ministry disposed of many such airfields, returning the land to its original owners or selling it for other uses.

The site is now a mix of agricultural, industrial, and renewable energy use. Most of the concrete runways and taxiways have been removed or have fallen into disrepair, though their outlines are still visible in aerial photography. A significant portion of the former airfield is now the Gosfield Airfield Industrial Estate. Another large section has been developed into a solar farm. The original control tower, though heavily derelict and ruinous, is still standing as a remnant of the airfield's past. The site has also been used for motorsports, including drag racing and banger racing, at various times since its closure.

RAF Gosfield was a significant World War II airfield, primarily used by the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). Constructed in 1942-1943 as a Class A bomber airfield, it was designated USAAF Station 154. Its primary operational unit was the 397th Bombardment Group (Medium), which flew Martin B-26 Marauder bombers from April to August 1944. The group played a crucial role in the build-up to the D-Day landings, conducting tactical bombing missions against V-1 flying bomb sites, bridges, coastal batteries, and airfields in Occupied France. After the 397th moved to the continent, the airfield briefly hosted the 365th Fighter Group flying P-47 Thunderbolts. The station was returned to RAF control in October 1944 and was used for short-term storage and maintenance by No. 91 Maintenance Unit before being placed on a care and maintenance basis and eventually closed.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening RAF Gosfield as an airport. The removal of most of the original aviation infrastructure, combined with the site's redevelopment for industrial, agricultural, and energy generation purposes, makes any potential reopening unfeasible and highly improbable.