Jay - it's not a stupid question - too many pilots think that once they've got the PPL safely tucked away, they're not allowed to ask about the multitude of previously unthought of scenarios which subsequently arrive on the doorstep.
A licensed airfield - will be inspected by the CAA at least once a year, and the airfield facilities and equipment will have to conform to certain minimum standards (runways, taxiways, provision of fire and rescue facilities, ensuring that approach slopes and take off paths etc are free from obstructions etc), during published opening hours.
Some, but not all, airfields do have a system which allows operators to fly in and out when the airfield is otherwise closed, in my experience though, the airfield operator will issue an exemption which is specifically for your aircraft only when operated by you, and they will need a copy of a valid insurance certificate. The exemption also indemnifies them should you prang into the royal residence next door or similar.
An unlicensed airfield - will not be inspected, and there is no onus on the airfield operator to maintain a minimum level of facilities.
The vast majority of airfields publish their opening hours in the UKAIP, Pooleys, Lockyears etc, along with contact telephone
numbers for anyone wanting to go there.
In both cases, it would be extremely foolhardy, if not inconsiderate, to operate out of published hours into any airfield out of hours without the owners permission and a briefing.
Last edited by niknak; 7th April 2002 at 12:26.