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What was Birmingham Airport originally called?

Published in Airport History 2 mins read

Birmingham Airport was originally called Elmdon Airport.

A Glimpse into Elmdon Airport's Early Years

Birmingham Airport, a crucial hub in the West Midlands, began its journey under a different name, deeply rooted in pre-World War II history.

The Airport, known then as Elmdon, was officially opened in 1939 by HRH the Duchess of Kent. This momentous occasion, however, was quickly overshadowed by global events. Just two months after its grand inauguration, the Second World War broke out, leading to a significant shift in its operations.

  • Wartime Requisition: The Air Ministry swiftly requisitioned the airport, marking the end of all civil flying activities.
  • Military Training: During the war, Elmdon served as an essential Elementary Flying School. It played a vital role in training pilots for both the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Fleet Air Arm, contributing significantly to the war effort.

Key Milestones of Early Birmingham Airport

Event Date/Period Details
Official Opening 1939 Opened by HRH the Duchess of Kent, originally known as Elmdon.
WWII Outbreak Two months after opening The Air Ministry requisitioned the airport, halting all civil flying.
Wartime Operations During WWII Utilized as an Elementary Flying School for RAF and Fleet Air Arm pilots.

The transition from a civil airport to a military training ground highlights the rapid adaptability required during wartime. Post-war, the airport eventually returned to civil operations, evolving into the modern international gateway we know today as Birmingham Airport.