Pilot reviews of Cumbernauld Airfield

Visited Cumbernauld (EGPG) direct from Netherthorpe (EGNF) in G-ROLY, a C172 based at Netherthorpe on 21/06/2016. Routing was via Sherburn and Carlisle overheads then TLA VOR. Edinburgh approach were very helpful and there were no issues with gaining transits either on the way in or the return flights.

The weather en route was initially good although it did get pretty poor over the hills and we were IMC for some time with +/- 500fpm at times.

The airport has no instrument approach aids and we were told they were blown away in some severe wind in previous years but there are plans to have an RNAV approach installed in the near future.

The runway is in excellent condition with lighting if required.

We have a very friendly welcome from the tower man and chatted for some time.

Unfortunately there was no food on offer as the café was closed with no open date planned, the only option was a vending machine downstairs.

The return flight was done via the Edinburgh overhead to view my new base and then via Holy Island in Northumbria for some scenic photos.

Glad to have visited, another new one for the log book!

Flew into Cumbernauld on Monday 12th October from Blackpool. Scottish Information and Glasgow Radar were extremely helpful and Glasgow provided zone crossing clearance inbound and outbound (to Oban). This was my first visit and I found it difficult to spot the airfield on the edge of an industrial estate until quite close. However, the preferred overhead join and Sky Demon assisted. The runway was in very good condition as was the parking area. Unfortunately, the café was shut due to staff absence (normally open 7 days/week) so I can’t comment on it. However, all the staff were very friendly and helped with pushing the aircraft back to a parking spot after refuelling.

The flight inbound was very interesting, but the flight outbound to Oban was spectacular, flying over some pretty high ground with no signs of human habitation for much of the way. However, although a lovely flight I would suggest that the café or fuel would be the main reason to visit unless one was visiting Cumbernauld itself.