By Kevin Wilkins
March 5, 2026, marks ninety years since one of the most significant flights in aviation history. On that day in 1936, Supermarine test pilot Captain Joseph “Mutt” Summers lifted the prototype Supermarine Type 300, serial K5054, into the air from Eastleigh Aerodrome near Southampton. The maiden flight lasted just eight minutes, but upon landing Summers reportedly delivered a verdict that would become legendary: “Don’t change a thing.”
That brief flight marked the beginning of the Spitfire’s remarkable legacy, one that would see the aircraft become an enduring symbol of British aviation during the Second World II and one of the most celebrated fighter aircraft in history. To commemorate the 90th anniversary of that first flight, Spitfires.com—formerly known as the Boultbee Flight Academy—has announced a unique national tour that will retrace the aircraft’s historical roots while offering aviation enthusiasts an opportunity to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Spitfire for Every Decade
Central to the commemoration is the two-seat Spitfire BS410, a genuine wartime aircraft that has been repainted to replicate the appearance of the original prototype K5054. The aircraft will undertake a circumnavigation of mainland Great Britain in a series of nine flights, each representing a decade since the Spitfire’s first flight in 1936. The tour will begin from Southampton International Airport—formerly Eastleigh Aerodrome—the very location where Summers first flew K5054 ninety years ago. Working in partnership with the Royal Air Force, Spitfires.com will route the aircraft over numerous historically significant locations connected with the Spitfire’s design, production, and operational history. Planned flyovers include Reginald J. Mitchell’s grave, the site of the original Spitfire factory, and prominent landmarks such as The Needles, Beachy Head, and the White Cliffs of Dover. Other key points along the route include the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne and RAF Coningsby, the current home of the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Additional historically significant locations will also be included along the route as the aircraft completes its journey around the British Isles.
RAF Escort Aircraft
Adding to the historic nature of the tour, the Royal Air Force will provide escort aircraft for the commemorative flights. At least one RAF aircraft will accompany the Spitfire on each of the nine legs of the journey, creating a powerful visual link between the RAF’s historic past and its modern capabilities. Potential escort aircraft include a range of types representing both historic and contemporary RAF aviation. These may include the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II, the Eurofighter Typhoon, a Boeing CH-47 Chinook, and the Embraer Phenom multi-engine trainer used by RAF crews. Historic aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight may also participate, while the BAE Systems Hawk T1 jets of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team—the Red Arrows—are also expected to take part. Air-to-air photography will capture the aircraft during the commemorative flights, documenting a rare combination of historic and modern RAF aircraft flying together over some of Britain’s most iconic landscapes.
A Chance to Fly in History
While the tour itself celebrates one of aviation’s most legendary aircraft, Spitfires.com is also using the occasion to support two charitable organizations. Through a special charity auction, members of the public will have the opportunity to bid for the chance to occupy the rear seat of Spitfire BS410 during one of the historic flights. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Mark Long Trust and the RAF Benevolent Fund, both organizations dedicated to supporting members of the RAF community and their families. For aviation enthusiasts, the opportunity represents far more than simply a flight in a historic aircraft. Participants will take part in a national commemoration, flying routes that have been carefully designed to reflect the history and heritage of the Spitfire. Looking across the Spitfire’s iconic elliptical wing while flying in formation with Royal Air Force aircraft offers a perspective few will ever experience. For those fortunate enough to secure a seat, the journey promises to be both a personal milestone and a contribution to preserving the legacy of one of aviation’s most beloved aircraft.
Ninety years after its first flight, the Spitfire continues to inspire pilots, historians, and enthusiasts around the world. Through this commemorative circumnavigation of the United Kingdom, Spitfires.com aims to honor that legacy while ensuring that the story of the Spitfire continues to be celebrated for generations to come. For more information, visit www.spitfires.com/auction
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Kevin Wilkins is a veteran journalist who has spent more than 30 years working for a major British broadcaster. His passion for aviation began at a young age, inspired by his father, who flew the English Electric Lightning. A long career in mainstream news, politics, and journalism kept him largely away from his early interest in aviation history. As he approaches retirement, Kevin is increasingly returning to that passion and becoming more involved with Vintage Aviation News.
