Operation Plainfare: The RAF in the Berlin Airlift

In 1948, Royal Air Force (RAF) Transport Command deployed transport aircraft to Germany, to operate alongside its US allies in the Berlin Airlift. From the start of the blockade in 1948 until September 1949, RAF aircraft flew continuously into Berlin, carrying vital food, fuel and medical supplies. Although the RAF contributed fewer aircraft than the US Air Force, these aircraft and crews played a significant part in the operation, including the use of Sunderland flying boats to deliver much-needed salt. British civilian aircraft were also important, particularly in the delivery of liquid fuel using specialised tanker aircraft.