RAF Metfield

The airfield was closed as it was deemed surplus to military requirements following the end of World War II. RAF Metfield was constructed as a temporary wartime airfield, and like many others, it was not needed in the post-war demobilization. A contributing factor was its problematic runway, which was built on a high water table and suffered from a poor, unstable surface, leading to its early abandonment by heavy bomber units.

The site of the former RAF Metfield has largely been returned to agricultural use, with much of the land now used for farming, including a large pig farm. However, significant remnants of its past are still visible. Portions of the original concrete runways, perimeter track, and aircraft hardstands remain, though in a deteriorated condition. Several of the original Nissen huts and other wartime buildings are still standing and are used for light industrial or agricultural storage purposes. A memorial dedicated to the USAAF and RAF personnel who served at the airfield is located on-site. The Metfield Airfield Museum, located in the original Nissen hut chapel, preserves the history of the station and its units.

RAF Metfield, designated USAAF Station 366, holds significant historical importance for its role in World War II. Constructed in 1943, it was initially home to the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) 353rd Fighter Group, which flew P-47 Thunderbolt missions from August 1943 to April 1944. The airfield was then upgraded to a Class A heavy bomber station to accommodate the 491st Bombardment Group and their B-24 Liberators. However, due to the dangerously poor condition of the main runway, the 491st BG was relocated after only a few months in August 1944. Subsequently, the airfield was transferred to RAF Bomber Command's No. 100 Group. It was used by No. 196 and No. 298 Squadrons, flying Short Stirlings and Handley Page Halifaxes. These squadrons conducted crucial Special Operations Executive (SOE) supply drops to resistance fighters in occupied Europe and participated in major airborne operations, including towing gliders for Operation Market Garden in September 1944. After the war, the station was used for storage by No. 228 Maintenance Unit before its final closure.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening RAF Metfield as an operational airport. The site is privately owned, and its infrastructure is derelict and unsuitable for modern aviation. The land is now integrated into the local agricultural and light industrial economy, making any potential conversion back to an airfield highly improbable.