New & now
Local history page dedicated to the former RNAS & RAF airfield at Hal Far shares incredible shots
It was inaugurated in January 1923.

Jillian Mallia

The Hal Far airfield was a British air base stationed in Malta – with the islands being the perfect spot during the war and whatnot. It was built to compliment the sea plane base at Calafrana. Until the 1930s it served as the main airfield for both civilian and military planes and became a target and on the receiving end of Italian and German attacks. While the airfield is closed now, it still holds a place in Maltese history and these stunning photos prove it.

1. Aerial view

Check out this impressive aerial view of not only the Hal Fair airfield but those of Safi and Luqa, too.

hal far

2. Supermarine Seafire

This plane was based at the RNAS Hal Far and can be seen being dumped right over cliffs. 

hal far

3. Battle of Britain

Did you know? The Hal Far grounds were used as a filming location when ‘Battle of Britain’ was filmed on the islands back in October 1968.

hal far

4. Inauguration

The inauguration of the Hal Far Royal Air Force Station took place on 16th January 1923.

hal far

5. Target practice!

Check out what was known as a Fairey Firefly. Such aircraft acted as targets for Sea Slug missiles fired from HMS Girdle Ness. The squadron was disbanded in 1961.

hal far

6. Line up!

Buccaneers and Sea Vixens (types of planes) are lined up on the airfield, captured in 1967.

hal far

7. Gloster Meteor

The Gloster Meteor T7 was also based at RNAS Hal Far. What a beaut, no?

hal far

8. The glory days

Check out this fascinating shot of airfield officials on duty.

hal far

Courtesy of Paul Demajo Albanese via RNAS Hal Far "HMS Falcon" Group / Facebook

18th February 2020


Jillian Mallia
Written by
Jillian Mallia
A book lover, writer and globetrotter who loves exploring new places and the local gems that the Maltese Islands have to offer. An avid foodie and arts fanatic, Jillian searches the island and beyond for the perfect settings to write about.

You may also like...
New & now
New & now
They were particularly loved by the community for their impeccable bread.

Emma Galea
New & now
New & now
They’re common in Maltese waters during this time of year.

Emma Galea
New & now
New & now
New & now
From pastizzi trays to figolli cutters and carnival crowns, Sebastian shares his passion for the manual trade and how it has characterised most of his life.

Edward Bonello
New & now
New & now
Easter Monday is going to be hotter than ever!

Lyndsey Grima