Yorkshire's Hidden Treasure
A reader talks about Eddsfield airstrip
Added: 23 August 2005

A few years ago Ed and his mate Ray Thompson - mad ken aviators, decided to setup their own airstrip just north of Driffield in Yorkshire. For many years it remained a secret, but about 3 years ago it was included on the CAA Maps and in Pooleys, so is more used now.

They were determined to enjoy their flying and help other aviators to do likewise. Their efforts paid off and the small strip between fields of corn is a joy to visit, and whether there is anyone in attendance or not the facilities is still a pleasure to visit. Don't take my work for it, fly in and visit.

The internet awareness on Eddsfield is growing fast. There is live weather which is regularly updated on Langtoft.com. They have a live web-cam with split screen so you can judge the conditions and visibility from a standard picture of the field and distances.

The radio is available on 134.0 but as it is often unmanned, blind calls are necessary. Right Hand circuits on 27 and Left Hand on 09. LARS is available from Humberside on 119.12 and VOR location can be obtained from OTR and GAM.

The landing strips are 09/27 - 775m of grass, smooth as a billiard table. The only Caveat is Takeoff on 09 over the tress, or landing on 27 because there are trees and 2 masts on finals (with a crematorium just offset to the left on finals. However with reasonable handling it is not difficult. Descend on 27 finals to about 200ft, maintain until over the trees, then close the throttle and "drop-in" on the numbers, just be ready for any wind shear over the trees.

Once down - Landing is £3.00; parking is spacious with tie downs and £2.00 per night. There are hangars, but you need to check with Ed first if they are available. The caravan in the parking area provides a shelter for convenience breaks and refreshment. Everything is done on the honesty principle, so don't avoid paying. Fuel 100LL is available at an extremely beneficial rate of 95p/ litre including VAT - most other places are at least 20p dearer. Ed is also trying to get tanks installed for Jet A1.

If you visit at the weekends in summer, you can be sure of a welcome from the local crowd, but even if no-one there it is still a pleasure to visit. Do call PPR on 01377 267368 or mobile: 07977 494615

You will need a car or Taxi, but I am sure they can help you at the field.

Ed and his team are doing their utmost in these trying times to improve the field for the enjoyment of all. Why not fly in and support them and enjoy Yorkshire hospitality.

Local attractions

Gatton Manor
Driffield Golf Courses
Elvington Aviation museums
An ex-German POW camp
Cambrai Covers, specialises in top quality aircraft covers.

Local Towns

Scarborough
York
Driffield

Airfield Details

North Yorkshire N5406.42 W00027.26
Website www.eastyorkshire.co.uk/eddsfield
PPR on 01377 267368 or 07977 494615