BBMF joins Spitfire's 90th anniversary tour

Aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) are to take part in a commemorative flypast honouring the iconic Supermarine Spitfire.

A Spitfire has been repainted in the style of the original K5054 prototype, and it will embark on a series of flights to mark the 90th anniversary of the plane.

The BBMF, which operates from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, will accompany it on the first flight in April, with modern RAF aircraft joining it on its following journeys.

A BBMF spokeswoman said: "These flights will showcase the evolution of RAF aircraft over the years, set against the backdrop of the nation's most iconic fighter aircraft."

On 5 March 1936, Capt Joseph "Mutt" Summers, who was from Hull, piloted the first Spitfire prototype, the K5054, from Eastleigh Aerodrome.

Just eight minutes into the flight, he said: "Don't change a thing."

The BBMF maintains and flies planes in honour of those who served and promotes the air force to inspire future generations.

It was established in 1957 and now operates five Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster, a C47 Dakota and two Chipmunks.

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."

Seats on the flights, operated by Spitfires.com, will be auctioned to the public.

It will raise funds for the Mark Long Trust, which aids disabled people in aviation, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, which supports serving and former RAF personnel and their families.

The first flight will leave Southampton on 7 April for RAF Coningsby. It will make multiple stops before flying back to Southampton on 17 April.

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