As reported in the latest Royal Air Force Memorial Club bulletin, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) is steadily emerging from its winter maintenance period, preparing for the upcoming airshow and display season. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of BBMF engineers, the fighter aircraft are beginning to roll out of the hangar, edging closer to their return to the skies.
Spitfires Mk XVI TE311 and Mk IIa P7350 have both undergone successful ground runs and are now virtually ready to fly. Hurricane LF363 has also completed ground runs and is now fully reassembled, with only an air test remaining before it is cleared for flight. Meanwhile, Hurricane PZ865 has undergone a ‘Minor Star’ maintenance program over the winter and is awaiting the return of its ‘Reserve’ fuel tank, which has been sent out for scheduled servicing.
Spitfire PR Mk XIX PM631, powered by a Griffon engine, has been flying intermittently since October 2024, marking its return to the air after a three-year hiatus. Currently, it is undergoing an engine change, as its previous powerplant has reached the end of its calendar life and requires an overhaul. Once the new engine is installed, PM631 will be ready to join the 2025 display season. However, the ‘Major’ maintenance being carried out on BBMF’s Spitfire Mk Vb AB910 at Biggin Hill has been delayed. It is now expected to return to Coningsby in the summer.
The BBMF’s Lancaster, PA474, has been undergoing a ‘Primary Star’ maintenance program, a scheduled servicing that is less extensive than a full ‘Minor’ maintenance. Additionally, its No. 1 engine has been replaced after reaching the end of its service life and is now awaiting overhaul. There is still considerable work ahead before the ‘Lanc’ is ready to participate in the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, the extended ‘Major’ maintenance program on the BBMF’s C-47 Dakota ZA947 is nearly complete. However, the extensive paperwork required for such a significant overhaul has delayed its return to flight. The Dakota is now expected to be back at Coningsby in April.
The BBMF’s DH Chipmunk T.10 is currently at Duxford for a scheduled ‘Minor Star’ maintenance under contract. Once completed, Chipmunk WG486 will undergo the same level of maintenance. As the team works tirelessly to finalize these maintenance programs, BBMF aircraft are steadily preparing to take to the skies once again, ensuring their continued role in commemorating Britain’s aviation heritage. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight serves as a living tribute to the aircrews of World War II, delivering inspiring air displays at events across the UK. By joining the RAF Memorial Flight Club, you help support the vital work that keeps these historic aircraft flying. The RAF Memorial Flight Club is the official club of the BBMF. For more information, click HERE.
