Harvard Training Paves the Way for New Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Hurricane Pilot

RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire – The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) is gearing up for an eventful 2025 display season, with new pilot qualifications and historic aircraft returning to the skies. One of the most notable developments is the addition of Squadron Leader Al Luckins, a current RAF Typhoon pilot with 41 Test and Evaluation Squadron, to the BBMF’s elite roster of historic aircraft pilots. On 13 April 2025, Luckins took to the skies in Hurricane Mk II LF363, marking his first flight in one of the BBMF’s iconic WWII fighters. His qualification follows extensive preparation, including flying time in the BBMF’s de Havilland Chipmunks, and completion of the Chipmunk Flying Ability Test from the rear seat—a requirement for BBMF pilots operating tailwheel aircraft.

To further prepare for the transition to the Hurricane, Luckins trained on the Rolls-Royce-owned Harvard IIB KF183, flying from both front and rear cockpits under the supervision of Squadron Leader Mark ‘Disco’ Discombe, former Officer Commanding of the BBMF. Since his maiden Hurricane sortie, Luckins has been flying LF363 regularly as he works through his display work-up, including training to operate at lower altitudes and refining his display sequence. He is expected to receive his Public Display Authorisation (PDA) later in May, which will allow him to fly the Hurricane at public events throughout the 2025 season.

Meanwhile, the BBMF’s Spitfire IIa P7350, famed as the world’s only flying Spitfire to have seen operational service during the Battle of Britain, has returned to the air following post-maintenance testing. Squadron Leader Mark ‘Suggs’ Sugden, Officer Commanding BBMF, carried out the successful test flight on 25 April. With Spitfire Mk XVI TE311 and Spitfire PR Mk XIX PM631 also flying, three BBMF Spitfires are now ready for the start of the 2025 display season. A fourth aircraft, Spitfire Mk Vb AB910, is expected to rejoin the flight in June after completing major maintenance at Biggin Hill.

This year marks the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and Spitfire P7350 is expected to play a central role in commemorative events across the country. Its ongoing service is a testament to the enduring legacy of the RAF’s wartime heroes and the dedication of those who preserve their memory through flight.