We have delved into the Echo archives looking at all things aviation and have found a fascinating selection of photos showing Bournemouth International Airport through the years. 

Dorset Echo:

RAF Hurn, 440 SQD (RCAF) with one of their Typhoon's, 25th June 1944

 

The airport opened as RAF Hurn in 1941 but was transferred to civil control in 1944 with commercial services in the late 1950s.

 

Dorset Echo:

Bournemouth Airport at Hurn as it looked in 1952

 

For a short period, between 1944 and 1946, Hurn served as London's international airport until the opening of facilities at Heathrow. Commercial services resumed in the late 1950s, with Palmair commencing flights to Palma, Majorca in October 1958.

 

Dorset Echo:

 

The first Palmair charter from the airport took place in 1958, using a single 36-seat Viking aircraft destined for Palma de Mallorca. The service was one of the first charter flights in the United Kingdom.

 

Dorset Echo:

BAC 1-11 crosses the Avon Causeway on her 48-hour trip from Salisbury Plain to Hurn Airport. September 1964.

 

Dorset Echo:

Bournemouth Internation Airport 1997

 

Over the years there have been some major upgrades and development starting from 2007 replacing the arrivals terminal and upgrading the check-in and departure lounge areas. The new arrivals hall was completed on time and within budget in July 2011. 

Dorset Echo: