16 September 2020
The Blades aerobatic display team – all former Red Arrows pilots – marked Battle of Britain Day by flying over former RAF bases that played key roles in defending England 80 years ago.
The Blades’ Extra 300 aircraft travelled 250nm on Tuesday, 15 September, flying over nine Battle of Britain Sector Stations including Duxford, Kenley and North Weald, as well as the former Fighter Command headquarters at Bentley Priory.
The Boultbee Academy Spitfire joined in the mission over Hampshire, and a Spitfire and Hurricane flown by Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar pilots formed up over the Kent countryside. A Mustang and Spitfire pair operated by Ultimate Warbird Flights escorted the Blades back to their team base at Sywell Aerodrome, Northampton.
At the route’s midway point, the team landed at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar to meet RAF veterans and guests for a RAF Benevolent Fund ‘8Tea Party’.
The Blades display team in formation with a Spitfire and Mustang from Ultimate Warbirds. Photo: Claire Hartley. Top: The team flying with the Heritage Hangar’s Spitfire and Hurricane over Biggin Hill. Photo: Ian Black
Blades’ Team Leader, Andy Evans, said, ‘It was an extraordinary day and what other way to mark the Battle of Britain anniversary than sharing the skies with the world-famous British icons that took centre stage 80 years ago?
“For the first time in Blades’ history, we auctioned off the front seats of our Extra 300 aircraft on a passenger flight in and out of Biggin Hill to do exactly that – to fly alongside multiple warbirds, including a Spitfire and a Hurricane.
“Proceeds raised from this mixed formation flight are going towards the essential work the RAF Benevolent Fund undertakes to support the RAF family.
“As former military pilots ourselves, this charity is close to our hearts and has been for more than six years, so we were delighted to be able to offer our support.”
To donate directly to the charity, click here.
