Civil Airfield Elstree (EGTR)

Elstree (EGTR) offers convenient access to central London, with a short taxi ride (about 10 minutes/3 miles) to Elstree & Borehamwood Thameslink station and a train journey of less than 30 minutes to St. Pancras. The airfield features a relatively short, sometimes uneven runway with a downward slope on RW 08, and both left- and right-hand circuits are used depending on noise abatement requirements. Circuit procedures are complex due to noise abatement; only flying school aircraft operate in the circuit, while other arrivals typically join at 4 miles from the golf course VRP. Go-arounds usually require departing north and rejoining at 4 miles, with circuit aircraft giving way to those joining on long final.

There are no instrument approach procedures at Elstree. IFR arrivals are coordinated with London Control, Thames Radar, Farnborough, or Luton Approach depending on direction of arrival, with handoffs outside controlled airspace and radar information services provided as available. IFR departures are generally coordinated by the FISO for squawk codes and next frequency; occasionally departures may be treated as VFR.

Taxiways A and B are hard-surfaced and usable in most conditions; C and D are grass and may be unusable after rain. Temporary parking is available on tarmac. The runway is lit, allowing for night training on certain days or by arrangement. The airfield has a club atmosphere, professional radio service even during busy periods, and helpful staff.

Facilities include two maintenance shops (Metair and Cabair), two flying schools (Firecrest and Cabair), a Pooleys shop open six days a week, and an on-site restaurant/café serving good food. The location is suitable for visiting North London destinations such as Notting Hill and Marylebone.

Noise abatement procedures are strictly enforced; circuit directions vary by runway and noise considerations. One taxiway is partially grass and unusable after rain. Procedures vary; see AIP/NOTAM.