How to Fly a Spitfire
In the early 1930s, the Air Ministry released a specification calling for the development of a modern fighter jet with the ability of reaching speeds of 250mph. Southampton based engineer Reginald Mitchell responded to the call and commenced work on a new model, influenced heavily by his experience in crafting racing seaplanes. By 1936, a prototype of a cutting edge aircraft wowed crowds at an RAF display at Hendon and the iconic Spitfire entered into production.
Whilst Reginald Mitchell unfortunately passed away before the first Spitfires flew in August 1938, his engineering brilliance left a remarkable legacy as the Spitfire aircraft went on to be a decisive innovation in World War Two. The fighter jets, capable of reaching speeds of over 300mph and dextrous manoeuvrability, earned their stripes whilst helping to defeat the Luftwaffe during the Battle of Britain. The Spitfire's critical role in preventing a full-scale invasion by Germany and in turning the tide on D-Day in 1945, meant these impressive fighter jets became a symbol of freedom, defiance and pride for Britain.
The history of the Spitfire, along with its iconic design and fearsome speeds, has left many budding pilots and aviation enthusiasts longing to take a ride in its cockpit. Here, we set out key facts about these airborne icons, how to book a flight and the best Spitfire experiences out there for anyone looking to experience an adrenaline-fuelled slice of history.
How High Can a Spitfire Fly?
The Spitfire’s that flew in the Battle of Britain were powered by Merlin engines with 1,030 horsepower, while the evolved Spitfire Supermarine fighter jets of World War II were driven by even more incredibly powerful Merlin engines, with up to 1,760 horsepower.
These dynamic engines meant wartime Spitfires were able to reach speeds of 360mph and reach impressive heights of up to 34,000 feet!
How Much Does it Cost to Fly in a Spitfire?
This once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the only airworthy Spitfire TR9s left in the world can be yours for £2,975. Perfect to mark special birthdays and celebrations, or simply to make an aviation enthusiast’s dreams come true, you can also arrange for a 4k 360° video to be filmed for just £200 to immortalise the gravity-defying memories made on the day!
If you’ve been searching the skies for a truly unique and unmatched aviation experience gift, look no further than this exceptional opportunity to experience the thrill of a breathtaking passenger flight in a Supermarine Spitfire TR9. One of only eight left operational in the word, this remarkable aircraft was used by the RAF to train Second World War pilots in a past life and continues to epitomise Britain’s wartime fighting spirit to this day!
Taking off from several sights in the South East of England, you’ll hear the powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine roar into action before taking to the skies for a 20-minute round trip over the English Channel coast – the historic site of many important and pivotal moments of the Battle of Britain. You’ll witness the vintage aircraft’s iconic elliptical wing soaring over the beautiful English landscape below and even get the chance to experience some mind boggling aerobatics. Chocks away!
How to Book a Flight in a Spitfire?
Booking an extraordinary flight in a Spitfire couldn’t be easier with Buyagift. All you have to do is click on the ‘Buy Now’ button featured on our Spitfire experience page! From there, you will be contacted about how to choose the perfect available date to suit you and even upgrade your flight length if you’re keen to soar the skies for a little longer.
Flights are available from Tuesday to Friday between the months of April and November at a choice of two locations at either Lee-on-the-Solent in Hampshire or Chichester in West Sussex. And if your flight is unable to go ahead due to adverse weather conditions, there’s no need to panic – we’ll arrange for an alternative date to be booked so your fighter pilot aspirations can live on!
Alternative Spitfire Flying Experiences
If you want a taster of what it would be like to fly a Spitfire on solid ground before trying the real thing up in the air, why not grab the chance to experience an exhilarating flight simulator? These amazing machines are designed to train pilots for real life situations and let you take on all the adrenaline-fuelled challenges of an accurate flight situation! View All Flight Simulator Experiences
Do you have what it takes to pilot one of Britain’s most iconic warbirds? There’s only one way to find out! Experience the adrenaline rush of flying a Spitfire MK2A with this immersive simulated flying experience in Bedfordshire – all without leaving the ground. Over the course of an hour, you’ll learn how to perform realistic take-offs and landings, carry out real-life procedures with functional controls and gauges and be amazed by the stunning visuals and sounds on display. Get ready to travel back in time for the chance to battle it out above the clouds at your choice of World War II airfield!
Searching for More Gifts for Aviation Lovers?
From vintage aircraft thrills to helicopter highs, flying lessons, virtual flight simulators and much, much more, you’re sure to find a flying experience to delight your inner pilot. Explore our complete selection of once-in-a-lifetime flying experiences and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!