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History of Air Transport Squadron 22 Norfolk,VA

Air Transport Squadron 22, based in Norfolk, VA, was a United States Navy unit established during World War II to support the rapid movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies. Activated as part of the Naval Air Transport Service (NATS) in the early 1940s, the squadron played a crucial role in transatlantic and domestic logistics, operating a variety of transport aircraft such as the R4D and R5D. Its missions included ferrying high-priority cargo, mail, and medical evacuees between the U.S., Europe, and other key locations. After the war, the squadron continued to provide critical logistical support until it was eventually re-designated or disbanded as military air transport operations were consolidated under other commands.

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ABOUT Air Transport Squadron 22 Norfolk,VA

  • Establishment: Air Transport Squadron 22 (ATS-22) was established during World War II as part of the Naval Air Transport Service (NATS) to support logistics and personnel movement.
  • Location: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia—one of the oldest and most significant naval air stations on the East Coast.
  • Aircraft Operated: ATS-22 operated large transport aircraft such as the R5D Skymaster (the Navy version of the Douglas C-54), which were vital for long-range cargo and personnel flights.
  • Critical Atlantic Link: The squadron played a crucial role in transatlantic flights, ferrying supplies and personnel to support both European and African theaters of war.
  • Medical Missions: ATS-22 was instrumental in flying wounded soldiers and sailors back to the United States for treatment, pioneering aeromedical evacuation techniques.
  • VIP Transport: The squadron often transported high-ranking officers, government officials, and even foreign dignitaries during and after the war.
  • Cold Weather Operations: After WWII, ATS-22 supported Operation Highjump and other Arctic missions, supplying bases and conducting reconnaissance in challenging weather conditions.
  • Integration into MATS: In 1948, ATS-22 was incorporated into the newly formed Military Air Transport Service (MATS), marking the transition to global peacetime air logistics.
  • Distinguished Personnel: Several pilots and crew from ATS-22 later became leaders in both military and civilian aviation, having gained invaluable experience in large-scale air transport operations.
  • Legacy: The traditions and operational lessons of ATS-22 continue to influence modern naval air logistics, with NAS Norfolk remaining a key hub for military air transport.

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