RAF Barkston Heath

RAF Barkston Heath is a Royal Air Force Relief Landing Ground located near Grantham, Lincolnshire, England, operating under the command of RAF Cranwell. The air base was constructed in 1938 and has been in continuous use since then, with a period of operation by the US Army Air Force during World War II.

From 1943 to 1945, it served as USAAF station 483, hosting the 61st Troop Carrier Group with Douglas C-47 Skytrains, and later the 349th Troop Carrier Group with Curtiss C-46 Commando transports, playing a role in operations like Operation Overlord and Operation Varsity. After the war, control returned to the Air Ministry. From 1983 to 1989, it housed 'A' Flight 25 Squadron with Bristol Bloodhound surface-to-air missiles.

Since 1995, RAF Barkston Heath has been a primary site for elementary flying training. It initially hosted the Joint Elementary Flying Training School (JEFTS), which later became the Defence Elementary Flying Training School (DEFTS). The school has operated various trainer aircraft, including the Slingsby T67M Firefly, Grob Tutor T.1, and currently the Grob Prefect T.1. The main air unit stationed at the base is 57 Squadron, which provides elementary flying training for RAF and Royal Navy students. 703 Naval Air Squadron also conducts training here for Fleet Air Arm pilots. The base also serves as a Relief Landing Ground for flying training activities at RAF Cranwell.

The site covers 224 hectares and features three asphalt runways. Facilities are limited, with support primarily provided by RAF Cranwell. The main building, the Esmonde Building, was refurbished in 2018. Aircraft and support services are provided by civilian contractors as part of the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) contract.