They were an integral part of larger, more potent fighting formations for most of their existence.

The squadron was credited with destroying 15 German airplanes and two observation balloons during the war.

Established in II Armee during June 1917, the squadron was equipped with Nieuport fighters and dubbed Escadrille N.96.

At the same time, it refitted with SPAD fighters, changing the unit designation to Escadrille Spa.96.

By war's end, Escadrille 96 was credited with the destruction of 15 German airplanes and two observation balloons.