The Shuttleworth Collection has announced an exciting addition to its 2025 Festival of Flight lineup—the combat veteran Chance-Vought F4U-5NL Corsair from Flying Legends will be returning to the UK and making its debut at Shuttleworth across both days of the event.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Bedfordshire, the 2025 Festival of Flight promises an unforgettable weekend filled with thrilling aerial displays, rich aviation history, and family-friendly entertainment. As always, the event aims to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of aviation, past and present, with a breathtaking program of performances in the skies. Beyond the stunning air displays, the festival will offer a variety of activities for all ages, including lively parades, a funfair, delicious food and drink options, and interactive Discovery Zones designed to engage and educate visitors. Click HERE for tickets.
The featured Corsair, built as a winterized F4U-5NL night fighter, rolled off the production line in Dallas, Texas, on December 31, 1950. In May 1951, it was assigned to Navy Composite Squadron 3 (VC-3) with the tail code ‘NP.’ By early 1952, the aircraft had been ferried to Japan and transferred to the U.S. Marine Corps’ Marine Wing Support Squadron 1 (MWSS-1). Just weeks later, on February 20, 1952, it joined VMF-513(N), the legendary “Flying Nightmares,” a Marine squadron renowned for its night attack missions over Korea. At the time, VMF-513 operated approximately 15 F4U-5NL Corsairs, with this very aircraft—BuNo. 124541—among them, making it a true combat veteran of the Korean War. Click HERE for the complete history.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness a historic warbird in action and experience a weekend of aviation excellence. Secure your tickets now for this must-see event! Click HERE to purchase your tickets.
