Aircraft Maintenance at Burtonwood

Transport aeroplanes were put under a great deal of pressure by the Berlin Airlift. The aircraft carried heavy loads, some of which – such as coal – left debris onboard. They flew in all weather, made more frequent takeoffs and landings than they had been designed for and were more likely to sustain minor damage. All of this meant that efficient servicing was vital if they were to continue flying.

The 59th Air Depot was established at Burtonwood in north-west England, where the 7540th Maintenance Group was responsible for servicing US C-54 transport aircraft after every 200 hours of flying time. Between 9 October 1948 and 11 October 1949 1,584 aircraft passed through Burtonwood, making a vital contribution to the success of the airlift.