Planned to be a Satellite Landing Ground for No. 23 Maintenance Unit at RAF Aldergrove, Langford Lodge was selected in October 1941 to be developed as an air deport for the maintenance and repair of USAAF aircraft. A scheme was devised whereby the British Ministry of Aircraft Production would build the airfield and necessary facilities, while the American Lockheed Aircraft Corporation would staff the depot with civilian employees. Built during January-October 1942, and extended during the winter of 1943-44, the 3rd Base Air Depot had eventually two concrete runways, 26 pan hardstandings with 100 'fingers’ for aircraft storage, and nine T2, eight Robin and some 20 Butler hangars, plus a Lockheed-designed hangar. During 1942 the station was considered as a transport base for USAAF Air Support Command and for the Eighth Air Force but never used as such. Although transferred officially to the Eighth Air Force in December 1942, the Depot continued to be run by Lockheed until closed in August 1944. The station was occupied briefly by the 7th Air Depot Group of VIII Service Command during September 1943 to January 1944.