The airfield was closed by owners Vistry Group after they purchased the land for housing – no planning permission has been granted yet.
Nottingham City Airport said on Sunday 8 June:
‘Friday marked a deeply sad and significant moment for aviation in the East Midlands, as Nottingham City Airport closed its doors to fixed-wing flying.
‘For decades, this airfield has been home to student pilots taking their first flight, seasoned aviators sharing their passion, families enjoying open days, and aircraft of all kinds coming and going against the backdrop of our city skyline.
‘It’s more than just an airport – it’s where memories were made, careers took off, and friendships were formed in hangars, over radios, and across café tables.
‘To everyone who flew here, trained here, worked here, visited, or simply watched the aircraft come and go: thank you for being part of the story.
‘To all the pilots who came to say goodbye throughout the week and on Friday – your presence meant more than we can say. It was genuinely overwhelming to hear your kind words and see how much this place has meant to you. Over the years, we’ve come to know so many of you, and it’s been a privilege to be part of your journey.
‘A heartfelt thank you as well to the team at SkyBanner The UK’s Leading Air Banner towing company, especially Bob, who’ve operated from here for many years. Their surprise banner on Friday – simply saying “Thank You Nottingham” – was a powerful and emotional gesture that captured the spirit of the day perfectly.
‘We’d also like to take a moment to remember those who are no longer with us – friends, colleagues, mentors – and to thank everyone who played a part in the life of this airfield over many years: flying schools, maintenance crews, ground crews, fire crews, instructors, café owners, tower personnel, and pilots alike. From its role in wartime service to general aviation in modern times, many people have owned and managed this airfield across the decades, each contributing to its long and varied story.
‘To mark the occasion, we’re sharing a video of a C-130 Hercules performing a low-level flypast here some years ago – a fitting tribute to the airfield’s proud aviation history. It’s a powerful moment, and in the video, the aircraft absolutely dominates the sky.
‘As we mark this moment, we kindly ask that the comments remain a space for memories, appreciation, and the legacy of the airfield — a place that’s meant so much to so many.
Thank you for the memories.
Blue skies and tailwinds, always.’
• Pictures: Tollerton Airport over the past 14 years as closure date arrives
