A series of nine commemorative Spitfire flights have been announced across the UK, set to mark the 90th anniversary of the legendary Battle of Britain aircraft.
These aerial displays promise a poignant tribute to a pivotal piece of British history.
The flights will feature a specially painted two-seat Spitfire, meticulously replicated to resemble the original K5054 prototype.
Each journey will begin and conclude in Southampton, Hampshire, the very location where RJ Mitchell originally designed and developed the iconic plane.
Operated by Spitfires.com, seats aboard these unique flights will be auctioned to the public.
Proceeds are earmarked for two vital charities: the Mark Long Trust, which supports disabled individuals in aviation, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, dedicated to aiding serving and former RAF personnel and their families.
The K5054 prototype holds a significant place in aviation history. It was on 5 March 1936 that Captain Joseph "Mutt" Summers first piloted the Supermarine Spitfire from Eastleigh Aerodrome, now Southampton International Airport.
Just eight minutes into that inaugural flight, he famously declared: "Don’t change a thing."
For the initial flight next month, historic aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) will accompany the Spitfire.
Modern RAF aircraft are then scheduled to join for the subsequent 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, with modern RAF aircraft joining for the subsequent journeys.
A BBMF spokeswoman said: “The Spitfire became a symbol of British resilience during the Second World War, playing a pivotal role in the Battle of Britain and securing its place as one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history.
“Over 20,000 Spitfires were built during its production run, and it remains a celebrated symbol of innovation, courage, and engineering excellence.”
She added: “The BBMF, which operates five Spitfires of its own, will join ‘K5054’ in the air during the first commemorative flight before escorting it to its first landing location at RAF Coningsby, the home of the BBMF.
“Throughout the remaining commemorative flights, modern Royal Air Force assets will also join the Spitfire prior to the aircraft’s arrival at each subsequent landing location.
“These flights will showcase the evolution of RAF aircraft over the years, set against the backdrop of the nation’s most iconic fighter aircraft.”
The first flight will leave Southampton on 7 April for RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire, with subsequent stops at RAF Luechars, RAF Lossiemouth, and Prestwick, in Scotland, RAF Valley, MOD St Athan and RAF St Mawgan in Wales, then Exeter in Devon and back to Southampton on 17 April.
The auction for seats on the trips can be found at: spitfires.com/spitfire90.
Intense Northeast blizzard had a 'Goldilocks' situation to roll up monster snow totals
Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer possible with medical tampon, research suggests
Starmer to update on Middle East war as Defence Secretary travels to Cyprus
Mahmood says Labour should not become ‘more Green or more Reform’ on migration
Almost a third of Gen Z men agree a wife should obey her husband
UK’s first charter flight to evacuate Britons from Middle East fails to take off
