11 Liverymen and family members visited RAF Northolt, following an invitation from Group Captain Jonathan T W Hough ADC MA BSc RAF, guest of honour at the 2024 Military Affiliates Court Lunch. RAF Northolt is the UK’s oldest operational airfield and home to 600 (City of London) Squadron, our affiliated RAF unit.
RAF Northolt is the oldest airfield in the UK still in operational use. It is also home to 600 (City of London) Squadron, our affiliated RAF unit. Members of 600 Squadron had just returned from Rotterdam, Netherlands, where they had participated in VE Day celebrations over the preceding weekend.
The group was warmly welcomed by Wing Commander Steve Fry, the newly appointed Officer Commanding 600 Squadron. We were then taken on a tour of the station by minibus, visiting various departments.
During the Second World War, Northolt was home to No. 303 (Polish) Fighter Squadron—one of the most successful Allied squadrons of the war. The original dispersal hut is still standing and was part of our tour. A highlight of the visit was an engaging talk given by Richard Kornicki, a trustee of the Polish Museum housed in the Officers' Mess. His father was one of the Spitfire pilots stationed at RAF Northolt during the war.
This was followed by a very enjoyable lunch in the Officers' Mess.
After lunch, Group Captain Jonathan T W Hough ADC MA BSc RAF gave a fascinating talk on the history of the station and its current role. Several key units are based at RAF Northolt, including the British Forces Post Office (BFPO), which handles all mail for the Armed Forces, and an Army bomb disposal unit, which is reportedly deployed almost daily. The King's Colour Squadron, which recently took part in VE Day celebrations, is also stationed there, along with a military dog breeding and training centre.
RAF Northolt is also used by members of the Royal Family and other dignitaries, and it is equipped to handle private jet landings, making it a discreet transit point for celebrities and high-profile individuals.
Our visit also included stops at the Despatch and Meteorology departments, as well as a briefing in the AIDU (Aeronautical Information Documents Unit). This unit produces detailed airfield charts that include approach flight paths and any potential obstructions such as cranes—vital for aircraft and fast jets landing in poor weather or at night. Due to ongoing construction around airfields, the charts are updated every 28 days. Interestingly, we learned that because of Northolt’s proximity to Heathrow, departing aircraft must bank left or right at 750 feet, depending on their flight path.
Overall, it was a thoroughly enjoyable and informative visit. Beyond exploring the station itself, it was a privilege to meet the dedicated servicemen and women of our affiliated Royal Air Force unit.
Liveryman Julien Pursglove
Military Liaison Officer