Chalgrove airfield
A reminder that the operator of Chalgrove airfield advises that:
Operation. The airfield is owned by Martin Baker and is used by the company to test and evaluate ejector seats. Associated with this there can be fast jets (usually a meteor), ground-based ejector test rigs firing seats upwards and associated helicopter flights in the overhead (usually not above 2000’) supporting testing activities.
The airfield is sometimes used for training and exercises by military helicopters (usually from nearby RAF Benson). The airfield is also used from time to time by light aircraft on company business. In all normal circumstances these operations will only occur Mon-Fri 9-5pm (excluding bank holidays)
Runway and airfield. Although the runway is quite long and properly maintained there are times when Martin Baker will run explosives over and around the runway. This could even occur when there are no planned flying activities. The grass areas on the airfield have a variety of obstructions and operational apparatus laid out and would always make landing there potentially hazardous.
Landing at Chalgrove. In all normal circumstances, unless specific permission has been obtained, gliders should NOT land at Chalgrove. In addition to the hazards detailed above access to the airfield for a retrieve would be complicated. Indeed between 5pm and 9am on working days/nights plus any Saturday, Sunday or Bank Holiday any access will not normally be possible. Aerotow retrieves are also NOT permissible due to the insurance regulations on the airfield.