A Harvard and Spitfire experience from Duxford - a fantastic aerial meeting of WW2 warbirds! This unique experience gives you a flight in a Harvard from historic Duxford Airfield with a very special mission: to fly in formation with a Spitfire.
As soon as you arrive on site you will be plunged into the world of wartime aviation. The whole set up at Duxford is incredible. Even the pre-flight briefing takes place in the original wartime control tower, giving you superb views across the runways and the aprons.
Now it's time to meet the magnificent Harvard. Built under licence by Noorduyn Aviation in 1943, this Harvard has enjoyed a colourful flying history as FE992, with stints in the RCAF, Sweden, Norway and even Lebanon. Her civilian days as G-BDAM saw her taking a starring role in hundreds of air shows between 1985 and 2001 as one part of a Harvard duo wowing crowds everywhere they went.
During your flight you will get the chance to take control of this graceful warbird, as your experience is treated as a lesson, not just a sightseeing sojourn.
Having said that, you'll soon realise you're not alone in the air. That incredible Merlin engine roar will have you craning your neck to see where the Spitfire is. As she comes into your sights, all eyes will be on her. Take in the air-to-air view of this wonderful old war girl, after all it's not every day you're up in one great warbird flying alongside another great one is it
After flying formation for several delicious minutes, you peel off and head back to base. As your Harvard warbird flight comes to an end you'll be able to reflect on the whole amazing experience. Not for too long though, as you've got a guided private tour of the IWM Duxford next, with your host showing you around and explaining some of the 200-plus aircraft to you over the 300 acre-site.
We think this Harvard and Spitfire experience at Duxford is a wonderful day for anyone interested in wartime aviation.
Flying in a Harvard in formation with a Spitfire:
