RAF Turnhouse
Turnhouse began as a WWI airfield in 1915, later becoming RAF Turnhouse in 1918. It played key roles in both world wars, notably hosting No. 603 Squadron, which downed the first Luftwaffe bomber over Britain in 1939.
During WWII, it supported Spitfire units, aircraft deliveries, Fleet Air Arm detachments, and visiting U.S. aircraft. Post-war, No. 603 flew Vampires, and USAF transports were common due to nearby Kirknewton.
Commercial flights started in 1947. A new runway and terminal opened in 1977, officially launching Edinburgh Airport. The RAF left in 1996, and the site became fully civilian.
By the 2000s, major upgrades transformed the airport.
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Source
- Text: TracesofWar
- Photos: TracesofWar
Nearby
Point of interest
Monument
- War Memorial Ratho Station - Ratho Station
- War Memorial Ratho - Ratho
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Cemetery
- Commonwealth War Graves Ratho Cemetery - Ratho
- Commonwealth War Graves Kirkliston Burial Ground - Kirkliston
- Polish War Graves Edinburgh - Corstophine Hill - Edinburgh
Fortification
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