Barton Aerodrome History

Building of Manchester (Barton) Aerodrome commenced in 1928, at the chosen site for Manchester's new aerodrome. This was following persuasion by John Leeming, who went on to lead the Lancashire Aero Club into existence at the airfield. By 1929, it was the first municipal airfield in the UK to be licensed by the Air Ministry. Building completed in 1930 including the Control Tower and large hangar and the first passenger flight took off in June of that year. Shortly afterwards, Imperial Airways were flying three times a week from Croydon and Birmingham to Manchester (Barton) Airport.

In 1934, discussions were started with KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines), on providing a csheduled service between Manchester and Holland. However, the land at Barton was considered unsuitable due to the ground condition after heavy rain and it was deemed too costly for the necessary improvements, and so a new site was chosen at the present day Manchester Airport Site.