By Andre Vermeulen

We honor and remember those who took part in the World Wars and celebrate the remarkable aircraft they piloted.

The day began early on Saturday morning at a hotel close to Heathrow Terminal 5. The broken clouds and cool breeze seemed to promise a fantastic day for flying. As I drove for just over an hour towards Duxford, my heart sank upon seeing the low clouds rolling in, suggesting it might turn into another rainy day. Nevertheless, my spirits lifted at the thought of soon witnessing the war birds in action.

Upon arriving at the airfield, I was welcomed by a well-organized team of marshals directing cars to the gate and parking area. I picked up my camera bag and made my way to the flight line. The first aircraft I noticed, proudly displayed, was the B-17G "Sally B," the last airworthy B-17 in Europe. This aircraft is maintained by volunteers and is stationed at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford. Its ability to fly is sustained through charitable donations, sponsors, and souvenir sales—a noble cause supported by the Sally B Supporter's Club.

It was early, just after 08:00, and the weather was cold and drizzly. I felt as though I had traveled back in time while admiring the old airliners on display. I breathed a sigh of relief when I looked up and saw the clouds starting to clear. Classic Wings began its operations, offering a range of classic aircraft that provided a memorable experience for those wishing to enjoy the magic of flight in a vintage plane. Their fleet includes several De Havilland Dragon Rapides, a T6 Harvard, and a few Tiger Moths. For the ultimate experience, one can also buy a ticket to fly in the Spitfire T9.

Gazing down the flight line, I saw several Spitfires and Hurricanes lined up and ready for action. To the right, there were Douglas C47s, Beech 18s, Curtis Hawks, and Grumman Cats.

Anticipation was building for the air displays set to begin at 14:00. The flight line walk, available from 09:00 to 12:30 for a fee of £5, allowed attendees to stroll along the taxiway and see actors in period costumes around the aircraft, enhancing the experience and providing a great photo opportunity. Visitors could spend as much time as desired near the aircraft to capture the perfect shot. Meanwhile, numerous aircraft were arriving, and I was thrilled to see a classic De Havilland DH 104 Dove on short final.

There was so much to experience and so little time. The flight line was cleared, and anticipation grew as the show time approached. It wasn't long before nine Spitfires fired up their engines and moved towards the holding point. The roar of the Merlin and Griffin engines sent chills down my spine. The nine aircraft took off and started their display. Spectators watched in amazement as the magnificent warbirds flew in formation, offering a glimpse of what the skies looked like during the war.

The Berlin Express, a P-51, departed on a journey from the USA to the UK, following the same path it originally took in 1942. This route, spanning 5,470 miles, was traveled by many fighter and bomber crews during WWII, passing through Canada, Greenland, Iceland, and Scotland. After leaving the airspace, the P-51 returned with an unplanned landing. Sadly, during its flypast, the canopy shattered and damaged the vertical stabilizer, leading to the aircraft's withdrawal from the remainder of the show.

The Spitfires kept circling, showcasing an impressive display of power. Meanwhile, the Seafury, Bearcat, and Corsair took flight, and as if that wasn't thrilling enough, Curtis Fighters and P51s soon joined them. The crews demonstrated incredible formation flying, offering a breathtaking glimpse into history. Sally B started up and took to the skies, and we were soon treated to a display of the B17 and P51 Mustang flying in close formation.

The clouds had parted, revealing a stunning blue sky, ideal for the display by a C47 and two Beech 18s, their shiny bare metal finishes providing a fantastic photo opportunity. Meanwhile, the Jungmann entertained the audience as the BF109E Buchon took to the air.

The BF109 is adorned in an early mottled desert pattern, featuring sand and green dapples over a light blue underside, and is weathered to represent a well-used aircraft. This paint scheme aims to reflect the severe operating conditions of the North African desert; it truly is a masterpiece.

Witnessing the BF109 and the Curtiss Warhawk P40F engage in a dogfight over Duxford is an unforgettable experience.

The Battle of Britain flight, featuring the Blenheim, Spitfires, Hurricanes, and BF109, showcased a series of formation fly-pasts highlighting the aircraft's capabilities. Unfortunately, the Lancaster was unable to participate in the display.

For the first time at Flying Legends, the air races featured four iconic aircraft flying in formation: the reproduction of the Travelair Type R, the original de Havilland DH88 Comet racer, the Percival Type E Mew Gull, and the LeVier Cosmic Wind.

The Comet's flying history includes its participation in the London to Melbourne air race, covering approximately 11,300 miles with a flight time of 71 hours and 18 seconds, earning the Mac Robertson Trophy and prize money. The Comet also took part in various racing events with destinations such as Cape Town and Blenheim.

The Mew Gull G-AEXF is renowned and was first acquired by Maj A M Miller, being registered as ZS-AHM. This aircraft took part in the 1936 Schlesinger race, which commenced in Portsmouth and concluded in South Africa.

The excitement persisted as we enjoyed performances by the PYB Catalina and another C-47, which executed a series of fly-pasts, while the Balbo Finale was preparing to take off for the grand finale. An impressive total of sixteen aircraft concluded the day's display.

After the air shows, I had a delightful time exploring the different hangars, which was truly enjoyable, though the day felt far too brief. A return trip to the Imperial War Museum at Duxford is essential, as there's an abundance to explore. The exhibits are impressive, and you can easily spend hours absorbed in the stories and displays.

For those looking to experience an extraordinary day or revisit World War II aviation, Flying Legends is the ideal destination.

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