Bicester Motion has renewed its commitment to the continuation of flight from the historic Bicester Aerodrome.

Following the successful preservation of the former RAF Bicester’s technical site through an intensive six-year regeneration as ‘Bicester Heritage’ — the UK’s Centre of Excellence for historic motoring — Bicester Motion is now exploring ways in which to promote the sustainability of the airfield, which has been active since 1917.

Its plans include continued gliding alongside increased historic-powered flight, plus an ambition to create Britain’s first immersive experience resort with dynamic activity, technology and mobility at its core.

Daniel Geoghegan, Bicester Motion chief executive (www.bicestermotion.com), said: “We are genuinely excited about the future of aviation here and believe that Bicester Motion can be the driving force behind a rejuvenation of the airfield’s prospects.

"Since the departure of the RAF in 1976, the airfield has not been immune from the deterioration and viability issues that have blighted similar sites across the UK.

"Our plan is to formulate a sustainable approach to enable it to be a positive presence in the flying world.

“During our six years as custodians of this hugely important location, we have reactivated 19 Grade II listed buildings and successfully removed the entire 348-acre Conservation Area of RAF Bicester from Historic England’s
At-Risk Register.

"Once home to a number of significant aircraft, including Blenheims and Spitfires, our aim is for the airfield to once again play its role at the heart of the British aviation community and — ideally — help to preserve the skills and training required to maintain these wonderful machines for many generations to come.”