[OS grid ref: 2412]

Stoney Cross airfield was one of the larger wartime airfields within the New Forest, and was active between the years 1943 to 1946, with post-war activities continuing until its closure in ’48.

Stoney Cross, as with all the New Forest airfields, saw a diversity of aircraft and squadrons during its years of operation. MKI Mustangs, P-38 Lightnings, and Hurricanes were the more notable fighters flown from the airfield, while larger bombers and transport aircraft included Wellingtons, Liberators, Stirlings, and Albemarles.

From 1944 onwards, Stoney Cross changed role from being a major fighter and bomber base to playing host to Transport Command and saw many troops flown out to the Middle East.

Today, the main SW/NE (25/07) runway forms the road to Linwood and the Ocknell and Longbeech campsites make use of the airfield service roads and aircraft hardstandings and taxiways. Only recently, and sadly, the Forestry Commission removed the huge water tower at Longbeech, a familiar landmark and reminder of the airfield.