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Hal Far

Hal Far was formed an independent airbase in 1929. It came under the complete control of the Fleet Air Arm in1946 and passed back to the RAF in 1965.

Article Highlights

• Post World War One

• World War Two

• Post World War Two

• Presentation of the Kings Colour

• Navy Air Days

Post World War One

Hal Far was built soon after the First World War as a shore base for aircraft from the Mediterranean Fleet. It opened on 16th January 1923 and was initially attached to Kalafrana. It was situated on the southern cliffs of the Island. In January 1924 the first Fairy Flycatcher was sent to Malta and assembled. This was the first aircraft to fly from the new base.

Five men of 407 flight in the Summer of 1928 (FAA)

407 flight Fairey Flycatchers in the Summer of 1928. (FAA)

Hal Far was officially formed as a seperate airbase on 18th June 1929, originally under RAF control.

It was also used as a base for aircraft such as Flycatchers and Blackburn 1's, many of these diembarking from the aircraft carriers, HMS Eagle.

Aerial views of Hagair Kim monastery near Hal Far July 1937. (FAA)

Airbases on Malta

• Introduction to Airbases

• Kalafrana / Calafrana

• Hal Far

• Ta Kali