Visitors will be transported back in time to the summer of 1940 as historic Duxford comes to life once more for this year’s Battle of Britain Air Show, taking place on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September.
Highlights of this year’s show include the RAF F-35 Roll Demo Lightning, making its Duxford debut on Saturday, the RAF Falcons Display Team, and the signature Spitfire and Hurricane finale flypast to commemorate the ‘few’ who defended Britain in the skies during the Second World War.
From iconic warbirds and thundering jets, to swing dance lessons and living history groups, IWM Duxford’s Battle of Britain Air Show is a perennial crowd pleaser, commemorating one of the Second World War’s defining battles. This brilliant day out for families and enthusiasts alike will feature historic aircraft displays, including the Bristol Blenheim, B-17 ‘Sally B’ and the much loved flypast of over twelve Spitfires and four Hurricanes. This year will also see modern combat aircraft take to the skies – the thundering RAF F-35 Lightning and Typhoon FGR4, along with dazzling parachute displays from the RAF Falcons.
Taking place at Britain’s best-preserved Second World War airfield which saw action during the Battle of Britain itself, the Air Show offers a full immersion into the 1940s, with vintage inspired experiences around every corner. Living history groups, live music, swing dance workshops and vintage hairstyling will transport guests back to the era and visitors are encouraged to dress to impress in 40s fashion.
New highlights on the ground include the car owned by Flying Ace Douglas Bader, a renovated 1937 MG TA; and an Airborne Assault Museum ‘drop zone’ activity area where visitors can enjoy object handling sessions and learn more about the role of the Parachute Regiment during the Second World War. There is also plenty on site for families to enjoy, including a traditional steam funfair and the newly opened Weston Play Zone, where toddlers and children can spread their wings and enjoy a new, multi-sensory outdoor play experience.
IWM Air Show Event Manager, Phil Hood said, “September may spell the end of summer, but we always look forward to this month when we can welcome visitors to our Battle of Britain Air Show, one of the highlight events of the Duxford calendar. This year will see an array of iconic warbirds grace the skies, and we have also secured some fantastic jets which you are sure to hear before you see! It is always amazing to see the historic site truly come to life over this weekend as we honour the enduring legacy of Duxford.”
