Celebrating 90 Years of the Spitfire:

Few aircraft stir the soul of a British aviator like the Spitfire. This year, the UK celebrates 90 years since K5054 first took to the air from Eastleigh on 5th March 1936. To mark this milestone, the UK’s premier heritage airfields are hosting a series of "Spitfire 90" events that offer an unparalleled experience for General Aviation enthusiasts.

The Shuttleworth Collection at Old Warden (SG18 9EP) is leading the charge. Known for its intimate atmosphere and world-class grass runway, Shuttleworth’s "Season Premiere" on 10th May will feature a special tribute to the early marks of the Spitfire. For PPL holders, flying into Old Warden is a bucket-list experience, though slots for these major display days are strictly limited and require early booking.

Further east, IWM Duxford remains the spiritual home of the type. The Duxford Summer Air Show (4th-5th July) is expected to feature a "massed formation" of Spitfires, a sight that never fails to draw a crowd. For those who prefer a quieter visit, flying into Duxford on a non-display day throughout 2026 offers the chance to see various Spitfires being maintained and readied for flight in the hangars of the Aircraft Restoration Company.

If you are planning a fly-in visit to these historic sites, pay close attention to the specific noise abatement procedures. Both Old Warden and Duxford sit within sensitive rural areas, and maintaining the goodwill of the local community is vital for keeping these airfields open.

Whether you are viewing from the ground or arriving in your own cockpit, the 90th anniversary is a poignant reminder of the UK's incredible aviation heritage.