Rattray was an unusual airfield in the fact that it was the Admiralty that identified the site rather than the Air Ministry. Also known as Crimond, the site underwent a long construction period before finally opening in October 1944 as HMS Merganser. Instead of an observer school, as initially intended, Fairey Barracudas were used by a number of torpedo bomber reconnaissance (TBR) training units at Rattray. No 774, No 714 and No 717 were among the squadrons based there. No 774 Squadron had initially carried out Telegraphist Air Gunner training before the airfield had officially opened. Two front line Barracuda squadrons reformed at the airfield in the spring of 1945. Observer training was also carried out by No 753 and 766 Squadrons, flying a variety of aircraft types at the site from the autumn of 1945 to August 1946. Naval fighters in the form of Fairey Fireflies and Supermarine Seafires also flew from Rattray in the first half of 1946. The site was paid off in September of that year and put on Care and Maintenance, finally closing in December 1947.

This airfield was built using the standard Navy layout with four hard runways. Most of the runways and hardstandings still remain although the majority of the structures have been demolished. Rattray was used as Royal Naval Wireless Telegraphy Station Crimond from 1978. A private company now runs the radio station after being outsourced in 2004, with radio masts visible on the airfield. Motor sport in various forms has also lasted on a more limited level since the 1950s.

The following organisations are either based at, use and/or have at least potentially significant connections with the airfield (as at 01/06/2022):

• BB Christoffersen Ltd
• Buchan East Community Council
• Crimond Raceway
• Crimond Stock Cars

Notable Past Associated Organisations:

• Aberdeen and District Motor Club