RAF Elvington was the only airfield in the United Kingdom used by the remainder of the Free French Air Force, flying Halifax heavy bombers, during World War II. After the war the airfield was extended for use by the United States Air Force but was never used.

The runway at Elvington is now in private hands but the adjacent buildings and control tower have been restored. The grounds now serve as the Yorkshire Air Museum which has many varied and rare aircraft and exhibits, including the only complete Halifax bomber in the world.

Once a year Elvington hosts a privately sponsored airshow in the UK, which incorporates modern military aircraft and classic aircraft as well as displays by the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.