FOR many aviation enthusiasts, flying in a Supermarine Spitfire is the ultimate bucket-list experience. At FlyaSpitfire.com, visitors have the opportunity to do exactly that with the world’s largest Spitfire flight operator.
Operating three original two-seat, dual-control Supermarine Spitfires, Fly a Spitfire offers unforgettable flights from its headquarters at Biggin Hill Airport, as well as more than 12 locations across the UK. Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or searching for a truly unique gift, few experiences compare with taking to the skies in Britain’s most iconic fighter aircraft.
What makes Fly a Spitfire unique is its remarkable fleet. The company is the only warbird experience provider to operate three original Vickers-converted two-seat Spitfires. These rare aircraft were converted shortly after the Second World War to train pilots for air forces around the world. Among the fleet is the prototype two-seat Spitfire, which is also the world’s only surviving Spitfire prototype.
Each aircraft has its own fascinating history. The company’s flagship Spitfire, MJ627, even has a confirmed victory over a Messerschmitt Bf 109 during the Second World War. The original gun-camera footage of that engagement is preserved by the Imperial War Museum, making the aircraft one of the most historically significant Spitfires still flying today.
Fly a Spitfire is based at Biggin Hill Airport, the former RAF Biggin Hill, one of the most famous fighter stations of the Battle of Britain. Located just 17 miles from central London, the airfield was home to numerous Spitfire and Hurricane squadrons during 1940 and played a pivotal role in defending Britain. The company’s hangars are home to more than a squadron of Spitfires, while its sister company, The Spitfire Company, specialises in the restoration and maintenance of these legendary aircraft. Since 2011, the team has completed the restoration of 17 Spitfires, with two more currently undergoing restoration.
Visitors can do far more than simply enjoy a flight. Guided hangar tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at these historic aircraft, while evening technical tours provide a fascinating insight into the engineering and restoration work that keeps them flying. Guests also have the opportunity to sit in an original Spitfire cockpit—an experience that allows them to appreciate first-hand the aircraft that helped shape history.
A Spitfire flight from Biggin Hill is designed as a complete day out, with friends and family encouraged to share the occasion. Guests can relax in the company’s 1940s-themed dispersal lounge, surrounded by memorabilia, photographs and displays celebrating RAF Biggin Hill and the pilots who flew from the station during the Second World War.
Once airborne, passengers experience breathtaking views across the Kent countryside, flying through the very skies where the Battle of Britain was fought more than 80 years ago. Depending on the chosen experience, passengers may enjoy the famous Spitfire Victory Roll and, under the guidance of one of the company’s experienced pilots, even have the opportunity to take the controls themselves.
Unlike many flying experiences, each route can be tailored to the individual. Whether you wish to fly over your hometown, a favourite landmark or a place of personal significance, every flight can be customised to create a truly personal experience.
Family and friends can also join the adventure by flying in the company’s chase aircraft, which accompanies the Spitfire in flight, providing spectacular opportunities to capture photographs and videos from the air using their own cameras.
Every passenger receives a commemorative gift pack including Spitfire Pilot’s Notes, an aircrew patch, a car sticker, a personalised flight certificate and two complimentary cockpit videos recorded during the flight. A guided tour of the maintenance hangars is also included for both passengers and their guests.
Experiences range from 30-minute flights through to 75-minute adventures. One of the most popular routes follows the spectacular Sussex coastline to Beachy Head, offering unrivalled views of the famous white cliffs, the iconic lighthouse and Eastbourne beyond.
In addition to Spitfire flights, Fly a Spitfire also offers the opportunity to experience the legendary North American P-51 Mustang, often regarded as the American counterpart to the Spitfire. Built in 1944, the company’s Mustang features a passenger seat positioned directly behind the pilot within the same cockpit canopy, providing an authentic perspective of what it was like to fly one of the Allies’ greatest fighter aircraft during the Second World War.
Mustang flights are available from Biggin Hill and selected locations across the UK.
For more information about Spitfire and Mustang flight experiences, visit www.flyaspitfire.com.
