“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few” so said British Prime Minister Winston Churchill at the height of the Battle of Britain. The ‘Few’ he spoke of were the British pilots who flew daily missions against the Luftwaffe as the Germans tried to force Britain out of the Second World War.

It was in large parts thanks to the stunning Supermarine Spitfire that they were able to resist the ferocious onslaught of thousands of Dorniers, Heinkels, Junkers and Messerschmitts. In fevered battle in bright skies over England’s south coast a few hundred pilots from across the Empire, and a brave handful of Americans in the famous ‘Eagle’ Squadrons, saved the country from the threat of Nazi invasion.

Now you can experience what it is like to fly one of these glorious machines as veteran flyer Tony Bianchi puts WWII ace Ginger Lacey’s personal Spitfire through its paces.

Everything is included in great detail from pre-take off checks, to a perfect three point landing with a vigorous aerobatic session thrown in for good measure. Bianchi’s commentary during your flight explains exactly what is required to fly a Spitfire - including tips and tricks that have been learned through long hours in the pilot’s seat.

This video why the Spitfire, like the North American Mustang (with which it shares a powerplant), was rated so very highly those who flew in it. Wartime pilots Peter Brothers CBE DSO DFC and Donald reveal the Spitfire’s unique superiority and present day Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Squadron Leader Paul Day adds his impressions. 

The aircraft, filmed especially for this video, include Mark Ia, Mark Vb, Mark XIV, Mark XVI and Mark XIX.

The film is introduced by Alex Henshaw, the famous ‘30s aviator and Spitfire Chief Test Pilot who was crucial in developing the Spitfire throughout the war