On Saturday 15th September 2018, Keevil airfield opened its gates to residents living in villages nearby to the airfield, as a way of saying thank you.
Keevil airfield, formerly known as RAF Keevil is located between the villages of Keevil and Steeple Ashton, east of Trowbridge in Wiltshire. Although no longer an RAF Station, the airfield which is parented by RAF Brize Norton, is still used for military purposes and large training exercises throughout the year. Aircraft from RAF Brize Norton and Joint Helicopter Command also routinely use the airfield.
Service personnel from RAF Brize Norton hosted more than 500 members of the community who eagerly descended onto Keevil for the open day. Prior to the opening, an A400M Atlas arrived at the airfield, operated by No. LXX Squadron. The aircraft remained at Keevil, while guests received a guided tour of the aircraft and had the opportunity to talk with members of the crew. Whilst some enjoyed looking around the aircraft, others relished in the sights of the 77-year-old airfield. Bannerdown Gliding Club provided a static display of their gliders and the staff from the Steeple Ashton Village shop provided refreshments.
“It was great to engage with the local community and allow them the opportunity to get onto the airfield. We view Keevil as an important airfield for many reasons and having the local support is vital to our operations there. Everyone who attended got the opportunity to look around the A400M, chat with the crew and ask all the questions they wanted. We would like to thank all who supported the event, it was much appreciated. We will be back in 2019!”
Flight Lieutenant Mike Mellin
Officer Commanding Airfield Assurance
