​​Work to expand Coningsby and its capability began in September 1939. Hangars were replaced and the layout of the airfield was standardised. It opened on 4 November 1940 under No. 5 Group, part of RAF Bomber Command. The first flying unit, No. 106 Squadron, arrived on 22 February 1941 with its Hampden planes. A month later they were joined by No. 97 Squadron with their Manchester planes. While at Coningsby, both No. 97 and No. 106 Squadrons converted to Lancaster planes. By September 1942, both squadrons had departed to other airfields. 

​With the construction of three concrete runways between September 1942 and August 1943, the airfield was again upgraded to the class ‘A’ standard. Following the upgrade, No. 617 Squadron (the famous ‘Dambusters’) moved to Coningsby on 30 August 1943 and remained there until January 1944. During the final months the war, several Lancaster squadrons were based at Coningsby as well. 

​Today, the airfield is still an operational airfield for the RAF. Typhoon planes are based here, and the site also hosts the Battle of Britain Memorial Flights. There is also a heritage centre for the public to visit and see some of the Second World War aircraft that are on show here.