Spitfire anniversary flight set to land in Cornwall

The iconic Supermarine Spitfire is set to take to the skies above Cornwall this week as part of celebrations marking 90 years since its first flight.

A series of commemorative flights is being carried out across the UK to mark the anniversary of the aircraft’s maiden flight on 5 March 1936.

Weather disruption earlier in the week saw one leg of the ‘Spitfire90’ tour called off on Tuesday due to poor conditions across the west of the UK.

The aircraft travelled from RAF Valley to RAF St Athan on Wednesday, after earlier disruption to the schedule.

From there, it is now expected to continue on to RAF St Mawgan on Thursday, subject to conditions.

During the journey, the historic aircraft K5054 is expected to fly alongside two QinetiQ Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft.

A further flight had been planned to depart RAF St Mawgan for Exeter Airport later on Thursday, including a formation with an RAF A400M aircraft, although timings may now be subject to change.

The UK Ministry of Defence said the milestone “honours the Spitfire’s enduring legacy as a symbol of British resilience and innovation”, particularly its role during the Second World War and the Battle of Britain.

The tour is a collaboration between the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Spitfires.com, and also aims to raise money for charities supporting RAF personnel and people with disabilities.

Organisers say more than £100,000 has already been raised, to be shared between the Mark Long Trust and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

People in Cornwall are being encouraged to look to the skies, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of one of Britain’s most famous aircraft if conditions allow.

Article updated 20:53hrs 15 April