No. 246 Squadron

No. 246 Squadron had its origins in a First World War coastal patrol unit formed at Seaton Carew in August 1918, but its WW2 existence began with a second reformation on 1 September 1942 at Bowmore on the Isle of Islay, where it flew Short Sunderland flying boats on anti-submarine patrols under Coastal Command; this iteration disbanded on 30 April 1943 after less than eight months. The squadron was re-formed a second time on 11 October 1944 at RAF Lyneham, this time as a transport unit equipped with Consolidated Liberators, before moving to RAF Holmsley South in December of that year. During its transport phase the squadron operated long-distance routes to the Middle East and Far East, adding the Avro York and later the Douglas Skymaster to its inventory alongside Halifax aircraft used for conversion and experimental duties. In February 1945 it absorbed the VVIP Flight and the Metropolitan Communications Squadron at RAF Northolt, reflecting its growing responsibilities for VIP and strategic passenger transport. No badge or motto was ever officially authorised for the squadron. It continued in service after the end of hostilities until it merged with No. 511 Squadron on 15 October 1946.