BBMF to perform rare five ship displays in 2024

The Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (RAF BBMF) is set to perform a rare five-ship formation display at selected events during the 2024 display season.

The Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (RAF BBMF) is a truly remarkable collection of some of the most iconic historic aircraft in the world. The planes pay homage to the brave men and women who served in the Royal Air Force during World War II and include legendary models such as the Spitfire, Hurricane, and Lancaster Bomber, which played a crucial role in securing victory for the Allied forces.

Lancaser with 2 Spitfires and 2 Hurricanes

The RAF BBMF offers an unparalleled opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike to witness these incredible machines up close. You can appreciate the skill, courage, and determination of those who flew them in the face of great danger. The upcoming display is set to be a stunning and powerful spectacle - a carefully choreographed formation of five magnificent aircraft soaring through the skies. The formation will include the iconic Lancaster bomber, flanked by four agile and nimble Spitfires and Hurricanes, all of which will leave you breathless.

For aviation enthusiasts, it's an exciting time as this will be the first time since 2019 that we will be able to witness so many of their aircraft at once, promising a spectacular display. In 2019, the BBMF had put up seven aircraft over central London and the Royal International Air Tattoo to commemorate RAF100. The BBMF’s Dakota, Lancaster, three Spitfires and two Hurricanes made up the memorable ‘Trenchard Plus’ formation. The sight of these historic aircraft soaring through the skies with their distinctive sound and grace is a true feast for the senses. It's a thrilling moment to see them all together again, bringing nostalgia and admiration for their heroic service to the country.

Last year, aviation enthusiasts were treated to an extraordinary experience at BBMF Members' Day. As they looked up at the skies, they were awed by the magnificent sight of the BBMF's iconic Lancaster, three Spitfires, and a single Hurricane soaring overhead in a breathtaking aerial display. The lucky attendees were spellbound as the five aircraft flew in perfect formation, showcasing their impressive skills with two flypasts before gracefully breaking away. This year, visitors to highly anticipated events such as the Royal International Air Tattoo and the Eastbourne International Airshow can look forward to witnessing a similar display once again.

The BBMF last performed this unique and special five-ship display in the year 2017. The display, which involved five aircraft, was undoubtedly a remarkable sight to behold. The five-ship display is an exceptional event that is not frequently performed, making it a rare sight for aviation enthusiasts and fans of the BBMF.

Get ready for an awe-inspiring experience as these majestic machines showcase their grace, power, and precision in the air. The BBMF is set to release its calendar soon, so keep your eyes peeled for the chance to witness this impressive display and pay tribute to the brave men and women who fought for our freedom.

Trenchard Plus formation from 2019

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) is a revered and prestigious unit of the Royal Air Force (RAF) that operates from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire. The BBMF is a regular RAF unit manned by highly-trained and skilled service personnel who are adept at flying a range of historic aircraft. The unit is funded by the Ministry of Defence, which allows it to maintain and operate its impressive fleet of twelve aircraft. These aircraft are a sight to behold and include an Avro Lancaster bomber, a C-47 Dakota transport plane, six Spitfires, two Hurricanes, and two de Havilland Chipmunk training aircraft.

The BBMF's aircraft are a remarkable testament to the RAF's history and are kept in immaculate condition. The aircraft can be seen flying with precision and grace in the skies over the UK from May to September every year, showcasing their impressive capabilities to the public. The BBMF participates in a variety of public and military events, including state occasions like Trooping the Colour and major airshows. The Flight also performs flypasts for public events, bringing excitement and joy to those who witness their aerial displays.

On July 11, 1957, the RAF Historic Aircraft Flight was established at RAF Biggin Hill. The Flight was initially comprised of three PR Mk XIX Spitfires and the last airworthy Hurricane of the RAF. Its purpose was to preserve and display historic aircraft, highlighting the UK's aviation heritage. The aircraft were chosen for their significant role in World War II and their technical advancements.

Later, the Flight's name was changed to the Battle of Britain Flight, and in 1969, it was renamed again to BBMF, which stands for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The Flight has since become an important national icon, showcasing the bravery of those who served in the RAF during World War II.

Over the years, the BBMF's aircraft have been meticulously restored and maintained to ensure that they remain in excellent condition. The Flight's team of engineers and technicians work tirelessly to preserve these iconic aircraft, keeping them in an airworthy condition for future generations to enjoy. Today, the Flight's aircraft continue to be a source of pride for the RAF and the UK as a whole.

BBMF Lancaster

Avro Lancaster

The Avro Lancaster, a majestic and iconic bomber, played a significant role in World War II and remains an integral part of aviation history. Roy Chadwick, a legendary aircraft designer, created this masterpiece, which is also known for being the precursor to the Avro Vulcan.

The Lancaster was a four-engined heavy bomber that was based on the visually similar Avro Manchester twin-engined bomber. It was renowned for its long range and ability to carry a heavy payload. In addition, special bombs such as the bouncing bomb and Tall Boy/Grand Slam bombs were also a part of its arsenal. These bombs were used to sink the German battleship Turpitz, solidifying the Lancaster's reputation as a formidable weapon.

A total of 7,377 Lancasters were constructed, and the majority of them were used by the Royal Air Force (RAF), Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Unfortunately, 3,249 Lancasters were lost in combat, highlighting the dangers faced by the brave pilots who flew them.

After the war, the Lancaster served as a test aircraft, and a few were even used as transatlantic airliners, known as Lancastrians. The legacy of the Lancaster is carried forward today by two aircraft that remain airworthy, one of which is flown by the RAF, and the other is flown in Canada. These planes are maintained by dedicated teams of aviation enthusiasts who work tirelessly to preserve this iconic aircraft's heritage for future generations.

BBMF Spitfire

Spitfire

The Supermarine Spitfire is a legendary fighter plane that was designed by Reginald J. Mitchell, a renowned aircraft engineer who had previously won the Schneider Cup. The aircraft took its maiden flight in March 1936 and quickly gained recognition as one of the most iconic planes of World War II. Originally called the Shrew, it was later renamed the Spitfire, which was in line with the Royal Air Force's tradition of naming planes after animals.

The design of the Spitfire was revolutionary for its time, boasting a unique elliptical wing shape that, coupled with innovative sunken rivets, gave it a top speed that was superior to that of most other fighters of the era. The wings also provided exceptional manoeuvrability, making it a formidable opponent in aerial combat.

Throughout its years of service, the Spitfire underwent multiple modifications by various air forces around the world. The performance of the plane was enhanced through engine upgrades and the addition of new weapons. While the initial versions were powered by the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, later versions utilized the far more powerful Griffon engine. This engine upgrade enabled the Spitfire to achieve even higher speeds and better climb rates, making it a favourite among pilots.

Overall, a staggering 20,351 Spitfires were built, and they remained in military service for a long time even after the end of World War II. The Spitfire was used by numerous air forces worldwide, including the Royal Air Force, the United States Army Air Forces, and the Soviet Air Force. Its retirement came in 1961 when the Irish Air Corps decommissioned the type, marking the end of an era for one of the most legendary planes in aviation history.

BBMF Hurricane

Hurricane

The Hawker Hurricane is a legendary fighter aircraft that boasts an impressive history. It was designed and primarily built by Hawker Aircraft Ltd. to serve the Royal Air Force (RAF) of Britain in the late 1930s. The aircraft was created in response to the growing threat of war in Europe, and it quickly became a cornerstone of the RAF's aerial defence strategy.

The Hurricane was powered by a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, which was capable of producing up to 1,260 horsepower. This allowed the aircraft to reach a top speed of around 340 mph and climb to an altitude of over 36,000 feet. The Hurricane was armed with eight machine guns, which made it a formidable opponent in the air.

During the Battle of Britain in 1940, the Hurricane was instrumental in defending Britain against the German Luftwaffe. With its speed, manoeuvrability, and firepower, the aircraft proved to be a formidable adversary, and it was responsible for inflicting 60% of the losses sustained by the Luftwaffe in the campaign. The Hurricane's sturdy and rugged design allowed it to withstand heavy damage and continue flying, making it a valuable asset to the RAF.

The Hurricane was also deployed in other major theatres of the Second World War. It served in North Africa, the Middle East, and the Pacific, among other locations. The aircraft was used for a variety of roles, including ground attack, reconnaissance, and anti-shipping strikes. Its versatility and reliability made it a popular choice among pilots and ground crews alike.

Overall, the Hawker Hurricane was a highly successful aircraft that played a vital role in defending Britain and contributing to the Allied victory in the Second World War. Its legacy continues to be celebrated by aviation enthusiasts and historians alike, and it remains an iconic symbol of British courage and ingenuity.