Listen out for our Amateur Radio Special Event Station – GB1QRA

Air Fields on the Air (AOTA)

As part of Air Fields on the Air, we are setting up a Special Event Station at RAF Coningsby on Saturday, April 5th 2025, this is part of Airfields on the Air.

Do check out our social media for updates including frequencies we are operating on.

Some Infomation about Air Fields on the Air.

Radio Amateur Stations worldwide are encouraged to participate. Especially RAFARS Members, RAF Air Cadet Squadrons, and Clubs. By setting up as many AOTA Stations as possible, participants can contribute to making the event a great success.

The event takes place on the first and second weekends of April. However, an AOTA SES can be activated at any time throughout the year. To participate, simply operate from. A current or former RAF Military Establishment that was used during the wars or remains in use today. Standard Amateur Radio Licensing Regulations apply. Also you can use an SES, GX, or /P callsign to ensure your activation qualifies for awarding points.

Operators can primarily use SSB or CW on any Amateur Band, but RAFARS now also includes DATA, AM, and FM modes in activations. Accepted digital modes include PSK31, FT8, RTTY, and Olivia 16/500. While airfield details cannot be shared, recipient stations can look up callsigns, which will also be listed on the RAFARS website.

Radio Amateurs and SWLs can earn certificates by logging AOTA Registered SES contacts. A Bronze Certificate requires five contacts, Silver requires 25, and a Gold requires 50.

Certificates are free and will be emailed as a PDF for recipients to print. To apply, submit your log details—including Date, Time, call sign, Band, Location, Operator Name, and the name of the Airfield or RAF Military Establishment—in ADIF or EXCEL format. Be sure to include your email address for certificate delivery.

RAF Coningsby

RAF Coningsby is one of the Royal Air Force’s most important operational stations, located in Lincolnshire, England. Established in 1940 during World War II, it played a crucial role as a bomber base, housing aircraft such as the Avro Lancaster and later transitioning to fast jet operations. Today, it serves as a key hub for the UK’s air defence and is home to the RAF’s frontline Typhoon squadrons.

The station houses the Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) force, which is responsible for intercepting unidentified or potentially hostile aircraft in UK airspace. This vital role ensures national security and rapid response to aerial threats. RAF Coningsby is also the home of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF). This is a historic collection of wartime aircraft, including the iconic Spitfire, Hurricane, and Lancaster, which perform at airshows and commemorative events.

With its combination of cutting-edge technology and historical significance. RAF Coningsby is a symbol of the RAF’s past, present, and future. It continues to train and develop skilled pilots while maintaining the UK’s air defence capabilities. The station remains a focal point for aviation enthusiasts and a reminder of Britain’s rich military aviation history.