For the first time, the iconic roar of a Supermarine Spitfire will be available for passenger flights from the heart of the Midlands, offering an unparalleled journey into Britain's aviation heritage.
A New Partnership Takes Flight
Fly a Spitfire, a specialist provider of authentic Battle of Britain aircraft experiences, has announced a landmark new partnership with Tatenhill Aviation. This collaboration will bring the legendary fighter plane to Tatenhill Airfield in Stoke-on-Trent, with flights scheduled to commence from April 2026.
This move marks a significant homecoming for the Spitfire, an aircraft intrinsically linked to the region. The historic Castle Bromwich factory in Birmingham was responsible for manufacturing more than half of all Spitfires ever built—a staggering total exceeding 10,000 aircraft.
Soaring Over Historic Landscapes
Prospective flyers can choose from several meticulously crafted flight packages, each offering a unique perspective on the Midlands' rich history and landscapes. Passengers can plan bespoke routes with their pilot, with suggested journeys covering iconic landmarks.
The available experiences include a 30-minute Spitfire Heritage flight. This route proposes breathtaking aerial views of sites like the National Memorial Arboretum, Ashby de la Zouch Castle, Lichfield Cathedral, and Chartley Castle.
For a longer adventure, the 45-minute Dambusters Patrol flight takes you over the dramatic peaks of the Peak District National Park. This route specifically traces the path of the famous 617 Squadron, soaring over the Ladybower Reservoir and Derwent Dam, which were used as training grounds for the groundbreaking bouncing bomb raids.
The most extensive option is the 55-minute Blenheim Palace Spitfire flight. This journey offers a spectacular bird's-eye view of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, before following the River Avon to Stratford-upon-Avon, the home of William Shakespeare.
A "Journey Back in Time" for the Region
Peter Monk, Managing Director of Fly a Spitfire, shared his enthusiasm for the new venture. "We are thrilled to partner with Tatenhill Aviation," he said. "The Midlands is steeped in aviation history, and now people from across the region can experience the magic of flying in a genuine Spitfire. It's not just a flight – it's a journey back in time, a chance to feel what our heroes felt during the Battle of Britain."
Martin Wenham, Operations Manager at Tatenhill Aviation, echoed this sentiment. "We're excited to welcome Fly a Spitfire to Tatenhill," he stated. "This partnership brings something truly unique to our airfield and the local community. The Spitfire is a symbol of courage and engineering excellence, and we can't wait to see the joy on people's faces as they take to the skies in this iconic aircraft."
How to Secure Your Historic Flight
Booking for these exclusive Spitfire flight experiences is now open, with the first flights scheduled for April 2026. Due to the unique nature of the experience and the limited number of flights available, enthusiasts are strongly advised to book promptly to avoid disappointment.
All bookings and further details, including specific pricing for each flight package, are available directly through the official provider's website at www.flyaspitfire.com.
