Spitfires to fly across UK to celebrate iconic aircraft’s 90th anniversary
A series of nine commemorative Spitfire flights across the UK have been announced to mark the 90th anniversary of the legendary Battle of Britain aircraft.
These air shows promise a moving tribute to an important part of British history.
The flights will feature a specially painted two-seat Spitfire that has been meticulously replicated to resemble the original K5054 prototype.
Each journey will start and end in Southampton, Hampshire, where RJ Mitchell originally designed and developed the iconic aircraft.
Seats on these unique flights operated by Spitfires.com will be auctioned to the public.
Proceeds go to two vital charities: the Mark Long Trust, which supports disabled individuals in aviation, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, dedicated to helping serving and former RAF personnel and their families.
The K5054 prototype has an important place in aviation history. Captain Joseph “Mutt” Summers first piloted the Supermarine Spitfire from Eastleigh Aerodrome, now Southampton International Airport, on 5 March 1936.
Just eight minutes into the inaugural flight, he made his famous declaration: “Don’t change a thing.”
On the first flight next month, the Spitfire will be accompanied by historic aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).
Modern RAF aircraft are planned to participate in further journeys, creating a spectacular blend of past and present aviation.
Historic aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) will accompany the Spitfire on the first flight next month, and will be joined by modern RAF aircraft on subsequent journeys.
A BBMF spokesman said: “The Spitfire became a symbol of British resilience during the Second World War, playing a pivotal role in the Battle of Britain and cementing its place as one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history.
“More than 20,000 Spitfires were built throughout the production run and remain a renowned symbol of innovation, courage and engineering excellence.”
He added: “BBMF, which operates five Spitfires of its own, will join ‘K5054’ in the air during its first commemorative flight before escorting it to its first landing point at RAF Coningsby, home of BBMF.
“During the remaining commemorative flights, modern Royal Air Force assets will also join the Spitfire before the aircraft arrives at each subsequent landing point.
“These flights will showcase the evolution of RAF aircraft over the years against the backdrop of the nation’s most iconic fighter aircraft.”
The first flight will depart Southampton on 7 April, heading to RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire, and then on to RAF Luechars, RAF Lossiemouth and Prestwick in Scotland, RAF Valley, MOD St Athan and RAF St Mawgan in Wales, then Exeter in Devon, returning to Southampton on 17 April.
Bidding for seats on the trips is available at spitfires.com/spitfire90.
