Its active phase commenced in 1917 and ceased in 1959 when Fighter Command left the aerodrome for good. It is now leased to a private gliding club.
During World War IIRAF Kenley was one of the three main fighter stations, together with Croydon Airport and Biggin Hill, responsible for the air-defence of London. It was during the crucial days of the Battle of Britain that all three RAF stations came into their own, fighting off the overwhelming might of the German Luftwaffe. Due recognition is also given to the pilots of the Commonwealth and Alliedfighter squadrons who shared the honours with the RAF.
To this day a number of the original 12 E-shaped blast pens, as well as the shelters for the servicing personnel which formed part of the background, may still be seen.
It is indeed in a former aircraft parking area of one of these blast pens that a memorial was opened on 19th August 2000 which has been dedicated to the Royal Airforce and Allies of sixty years before, with the inscription:
"RAF KENLEY TRIBUTE IN HONOUR OF ALL PERSONNEL WHO SERVED HERE 1917 - 1959"
