Had a wonderful flight on 24th October. Very professionally organised.
Safety briefing etc very good. A truly wonderful experience
Many thanks
Robert Bowen
Despite poor weather on BOTH of the days we planned to fly the team at Biggin Hill did their absolute best to ensure we all got airborne, at last. Fantastic experience for the three of us and it was the top of my bucket list at 77 years old and I clocked up my 3000th hour as a pilot and instructor in general aviation whilst we were airborne!!
Fantastic experience. Hadn't flown for thirty one years straight back into it. What a beautiful aeroplane to fly. Ian made it very special and everyone was very friendly and helpful.
If like me you’ve rushed outside or peered out of an open window whenever you’ve heard that incredible sound of a Merlin engine, you will no doubt have a bucket list moment should you be lucky enough to take an actual flight with one.
A cloudless afternoon, a beautiful Spitfire, a victory roll, and an all too brief moment actually flying the aircraft made for an unforgettable experience.
This adventure was not only enjoyed by my colleague and myself in our separate two-seater Spitfires but also, by our wives in the chase aircraft. Doing victory rolls 2000ft above the M25 traffic jam and also, for a minute, actually flying a Spitfire. What more could I want for my 70th birthday and it is all on film? I will be able to bore my friends for months to come.
Had a fantastic morning, the flight was amazing and the staff were really friendly and helpful, and put you at ease.
I would really recommend the spitfire flight from Biggin Hill with the Heritage centre. If you can I would recommend getting the chase plane so any of your gests get to fly and watch the spitfire in the sky.
Treated like VIPs from the moment we arrived,fulfilling the dream of a lifetime as a spitfire enthusiast,ending up with a personal tour of the heritage hangar,very interesting,and a fantastic spitfire related goodie bag to bring home, a truly memorable day.
Flighing in a Spitfire is a once in a lifetime experience. A true honour to fly in a plane that has become an emblem of when this country stood alone. The experience brought to life the courage of all the young pilots who flew this amazing aircraft.
The whole team make the day unforgettable and, at every level, they exceed your expectations. Not cheap, but worth every penny.
The whole experience was even better than expected with all the staff being helpful and very pleasant. The cockpit cameras mean I can relive the experience over and over again.
Words cannot describe my experience flying in a Spitfire with the team at Biggin Hill. It's still not sunk in as I write this review a few months later. Each and every member of the team were amazing and made the day even more special - including looking after my family. If you're considering doing this, I'd urge you to go for it - you'll most definitely not regret it. Also, make sure you take up the option for the chase plane for your guests - they'll have a trip of a lifetime as well. Huge thanks to everyone at Biggin Hill!
Left me absolutely speechless.
Amazing experience
Simply the best experience with a thoroughly professional team who ensure everything about ones time with them, and in the aircraft, meets and exceeds one’s expectations .
RBC - flew in Sept 2021 in beautiful sunny conditions in MJ 627
What a fantastic experience!
From the moment we arrived we were made welcome by the excellent staff.
Thanks to the ground crew and Smithy my pilot the flight was incredible.
Also thanks to Laurie for the guided tour afterwards, really informative.
Have recommended this day out to so many friends.
Thank you to all at Biggin Hill.
Best wishes,
Tony Geddes.
I have always looked in awe at the beautiful silhouette of the spitfire as it flys over my house from biggin hill and thought I would love to be able to have a flight in that iconic machine. Well to my absolute delight my wife treated me on my birthday to this once in a lifetime experience. To say it was truly amazing is an understatement. The staff treated myself and my family to a memorable day from beginning to end. The guided tour of the hanger where repairs and restorations take place are a true eye opener and very informative. Then the preflight information and training was excellent and straightforward, leading to the highlight of the flight itself, it was every thing I expected and more a truly magnificent experience, my thanks go to 'into the blue' and of course my darling wife for making my dream come true. The grin on my face says it all.
What an absolutely fantastic experience. The team made us feel so welcome and the flight was beyond words.
We really enjoyed the tour of the Spitfire Factory as well. I believe the volunteer who took us round was Laurie, his knowledge was second to none. A day to remember 5 stars
Hello sorry its so long in getting back to you. My Spitfire flight was wonderful, it has left me with so many memories, memories that I think will never fade. Would love to do that flight again perhaps to the South Coast next time but for the moment thankyou once again for making it such a perfect memorable day. John Harris.
As a post-war baby, whose heroes were RAF pilots and the planes they flew, what could ever be better than a victory roll in a Spitfire and taking the controls? The Biggin Hill team were brilliant - ground crew, hangar guide and my pilot/instructor. With these operations, delays can occur and it would be helpful if some food ( maybe just snacks ) could be purchased. Other than that, the day was a schoolboy's dream fulfilled.
The best experience for a aircraft nut, the team at Biggin Hill were outstanding, couldn't do enough for you.
One of the best experiences of my life took me a week to come back down from the clouds.am saving up for another go.the team were excellent thanks for a good day.
A truly fabulous experience beyond my wildest dreams. Cannot recommend more highly.
What a team! Everyone immediately put me at my ease from start to finish. A wonderful, wonderful experience. I have loved Spitfires from a very young age and this was just mind blowing. My pilot was amazing, explaining everything before it happened from the victory roll to me, yes me taking the controls, Then to top it all a tour of the hangers and more Spitfires! Thanks to my husband and daughter for the birthday present and the experience of a life time. Would I do it again...you betcha!!!!!
Fantastic event worth every penny. Highlight was being allowed to 'steer' the Spitfire and the pilot performed a Victory Role. Amazing.
Very well organised. Staff very helpful and obliging. Great present
Absolutely brilliant experience. The whole team at Heritage Hanger were great with special thanks going to pilot Don.
Being an avid aero modeller I found the whole experience unbelievable; to say it was awesome would be a gross understatement in my opinion. The look around the workshops was great which my guests also enjoyed, we found the mechanics friendly and eager to answer questions. The flight itself is hard to describe, it's something you have to experience for yourself to fully understand. my pilot was a very friendly chap and very helpful who let me take the controls for a short period of time; including letting me help through a victory roll. It was something I've wanted to do since I was a child and it was well worth waiting 60 years for. I can't fully describe the flight, it's so special you have to experience it for yourself to understand?
It was a most amazing experience - having always loved the sight and sound of a Spitfire to be able to fly in one was just the pinnacle of my ‘bucket list’. The pilot was brilliant, taking you through each step and then being able to take control was an unexpected treat. It is something I will never forget and I will carry the sound, the smells and the exhilaration with me for the rest of my life. Being able to have family and friends alongside and of course taking a tour around the hangar was also well worthwhile. I really can’t recommend this enough....
A very professional operation. A superb and memorable day out.
Good facilities and site tour which makes it a nice experience for guests. Great attention to detail including really clear videos of the flight ( no camera vibrations). Thanks to Paul and the team. I would love to do it again some day.
Awesome experience shared with my guests and a excellent pilot who sadly I can’t remember his name , if offered the chance , don’t hesitate do it .
The flight in the spitfire and handling the controls was at the top of my things to do list for sixty years, Anna , made feel very welcome, and performed a victory roll for me, the cockpit videos, and pictures taken by my son are now on a memory stick which i can watch on my television, a great experience recorded for posterity,,
Totally without equal, thanks all the staff for a great day, especially Don the pilot who dispelled any nerves with his in flight chat.
The experience of flying in a Spitfire older than me was truly amazing and scary in equal measure but were handled very well by the pilot, Don - very experienced with over 900 hours in 'Spits. All in all an experience to be remembered and savoured for a very long time. Happy to recommend it to anyone. Brian
Great experience - birthday present for my husband's 75th and a huge success. Many tanks to Pete, the pilot.
Only problem is, we are unable to play the video of his flight for some reason...
First class experience with good support and a friendly reception i would not hesitate to recommend it to a friend
Fantastic experience not to be missed. No fear or apprehension thanks to the expert skills of Don, the Spitfire pilot who made sure that the flight was memorable in all aspects. Thanks to Don and all of the crew and staff. Gary Thomson. Edinburgh..
A truly memorable day. This was a gift for my 70th birthday. Taking control of this fantastic aeroplane was a wonderful experience. Don, thank you very much. The staff on the ground were great, too - making the rest of my party feel at home. Nothing was too much trouble. We had plenty of time for photos, questions and meeting other participants.
If this is on your list of things to do - move it up to the top of the list!
What a fantastic experience did this for my 50th Birthday - One of those very few days that you will always remember and it was a dream come true for me to fly a Spitfire! Thanks to Don and all the staff .
An amazing once in a lifetime experience spent in the most iconic aeroplane ever produced, this was a gift from my wife on our 1st wedding anniversary. To top it all Don the pilot let me fly the Spitfire for around 7 minutes banking and turning around Biggin hill...this will never leave me and I will carry those memories forever.
Wonderful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic team who finished off my day with a tour and were happy to discuss what they do to preserve the heritage of these wonderful machines.
Thank you again for such a special day
What a fantastic experience - one of those very few days that you will always remember. Thanks to all the wonderful staff.
Everything was just as I had hoped
The 'into the blue' Spitfire experience was fabulous, even better than I expected, just a fantastic machine! All the staff were most helpful and very well informed too. Ten out of ten!
I booked this as a fortieth wedding anniversary gift. What can I say!
He had a fantastic day, weather was fantastic.
The staff were so enthusiastic and passionate about this incredible aircraft.
My husband is still wearing his Cheshire Cat grin. He thoroughly enjoyed himself and now wants a spitfire of his own. Thank you everyone for making his day so special. Especially Don the pilot.
Booked this for our daughters 21st birthday. We all had an amazing day, but what made it extra special was the staff. We were fortunate to have been in the company of a volunteer called John, who's knowledge entertained us throughout. His presence really did make the day all the more worthwhile. It was a privilege to have met some lovely people and to gain a deeper insight into the important part these wonderful machines played in guaranteeing the liberty we all enjoy today. Very humbling to hear the stories of the pilots who paid the ultimate price, and of those who did return.
An experience of a lifetime. So glad I've had the opportunity to fulfill a lifetimes ambition. I would recommend this to anyone.
Absolutely fantastic from start to finish !
Lovely welcome from the enthusiastic and knowledgable staff , the tour of the hanger, and obviously the flight itself which Is indelibly etched into my head...Actually allowed to be " hands on " for getting on for ten minutes to fly the iconic Spitfire......Thanks..Keith Morgan
Incredible experience, childhood dream come true and I cannot fault the day at all. The guys who run it all looked after us beautifully and do all they can to make it the special occasion that it is. The chance to fly the most iconic aeroplane in the world is such a privilege, thank you to all who make it possible.
Brilliant experience with the flight, however there was no organised hangar visit and given that we were asked to arrive at midday for a flight sometime in the afternoon the refreshment facilities were inadequate. Free drinks from the vending machine was welcome but as regards anything more substantial the limited selection of crisps and chocolate snacks from a vending machine was not adequate.
This was a fantastic experience, boyhood dream come true. Thanks to the pilot and all the staff at Into the Blue for making this such a special day. Would do it again in a heart beat. Brilliant, everyone should do it.
All staff are great, they take safety very seriously. John Tewkesbury
I can honestly say that the Spitfire flight is the best thing that I have ever done. The pilot (Don, a former Harrier pilot) was so informative about every aspect of the flight and we were chatting for the whole flight. I got to fly the Spitfire for 5 minutes and no matter what else I do in my life( apart from the birth of my daughter) that will be the best feeling I will ever have. To be in control of that iconic plane is something special. He also did a victory roll as well. If you can afford to do this flight, I would recommend that you take the opportunity, you won't be disappointed. You have a camera behind your head and one facing your face, which are recording for the whole flight. You get 2 memory cards with the video on it,a flight certificate, an aircrew patch and pilot log book. The team on the ground are very friendly. After the flight your family gets the opportunity to come and have photos with you alongside the plane. All in all, a dream come true, made possible by my wife Elaine xx
I can honestly say that the Spitfire flight is the best thing that I have ever done. The pilot (Don, a former Harrier pilot) was so informative about every aspect of the flight and we were chatting for the whole flight. I got to fly the Spitfire for 5 minutes and no matter what else I do in my life( apart from the birth of my daughter) that will be the best feeling I will ever have. To be in control of that iconic plane is something special. He also did a victory roll as well. If you can afford to do this flight, I would recommend that you take the opportunity, you won't be disappointed. You have a camera behind your head and one facing your face, which are recording for the whole flight. You get 2 memory cards with the video on it,a flight certificate, an aircrew patch and pilot log book. The team on the ground are very friendly. After the flight your family gets the opportunity to come and have photos with you alongside the plane. All in all, a dream come true, made possible by my wife Elaine xx
This was a brilliant experience and day out for all the family even those who stayed on terra firma. Boyhood dream come true I had to pinch myself on several occasions to make sure I was not dreaming.
Special thanks to Don the pilot and to the 2 super ground crew Gary and James.
My husband says that after 60 years of dreaming what it would be like to fly in a Spitfire, words can barely do it justice. He was emotionally overwhelmed, but Don explained every aspect perfectly, not only was he an outstanding pilot, he had the skill to make you feel at ease and gain maximum enjoyment. It was superb .
The sheer professionalism of the whole team, from the moment of our first enquiry, to take off and the museum tour could not have been better. Every one was so kind and helpful, all our visitors were made to feel really welcome which made the day an exceptionally happy and memorable experience, that we will never, ever forget.
Thank you Rachel, Sally, Gary, Don, John and Paul? to name but a few .
Doreen
A most memorable occasion with totally professional staff
And once in a lifetime experience
Weather helped too
A lifetime of dreaming of a flight in a Spitfire & then a 6 month wait after booking were completely & thoroughly rewarded by the most unbelievably good experience on the day !! Fabulous flight in an iconic aircraft. Pilot & staff were friendly & excellent. Wonderful day. I'd encourage anyone to simply do this and ignore the cost, whatever your means !
This experience was just amazing was made to feel at ease from start to finish. The flight itself well words cannot describe actually taking control of a spitfire.
Awesome experience flying over the White Cliffs of Dover and the Battle of Britain Memorial with pilot Barry
An amazing experience made all the better for the friendly and interesting staff. The day became more than just about me flying in the Spitfire, an unforgetable dream come true, but about my family being welcomed and treated to a wonderful day by everyone at the Heritage Hanger. This was how kids must feel when taken to Disney World !!
I found the whole experience to be very well organised and the Staff most friendly and eager to please . It was the most delightful morning and gave me and my family something that we will always remember .
Jim, What can I say, you delivered everything you promised and I cannot believe you have any complaints ever!! Naturally the flight was outstanding but may I also commend James for his attention to detail and also 'little' John with whom I had some excellent motor cycle conversation. WELL DONE TO YOU ALL.
The price-ticket might put some off but once you are flying a Spitfire you will never doubt it was worth every penny.
This was an amazing experience, special as I saw these Spitfires during the war as a boy, defending this country in the 2nd World War. It was a dream come true being flown in this Spitfire which was involved during this time. The weather was perfect, the Biggin Hill staff excellent, and being in the Spitfire was a reminder of how these pilots in cramped conditions were so brave and gave their lives for us.
This was a birthday present from my wife & she could not have given me anything else to come anywhere even close to this experience, a once in a lifetime experience ( or maybe not ). It is not just the flight, but the complete package, as right from the word go, the whole team went out of their way to make my day unforgettable.
The pilot Don was brilliant, not just for his flying skills & demonstrating the ability & agility of this beautifully restored warbird but by pointing out the landmarks such as the city of London, Donnington Racing circuit etc etc. As if that was not enough, he allowed me to take control of the Spitfire & coached me through some manoeuvres over the Kent countryside. Finally, after he took back the controls, he asked me if I would like to do a victory roll before returning to the airfield & that really was the icing on the cake. A truly fabulous day which will live with me forever ( or perhaps next year I will take the extended flight down to fly by the white cliffs of Dover ).
I would recommend this as the most thrilling experience you can imagine. Thank's once again to all those concerned who helped to make my experience so special.
Roy Stafford, Lizard Village, Cornwall
Every year the kids would say what do you want for Christmas? Every year I would say a ride in a Spitfire! Each year I was given socks & chocks. This went on for at least 10 years, until Christmas 2016. There it was, a ride in a Spitfire its very difficult to say anything and keep your cool. I'm very lucky I have meet the Queen and lots of other really nice people. But this was in a class of its own. All the staff at Biggin Hill were fabulous. If you get the chance, do it.
This was a gift to myself,and it was for me anyway the best day of my life.The weather,perfect.Staff at the Biggin Hill Heritage Centre absolutely brilliant.Don,pilot on the day,wonderful so calming brilliant.All being well in a few years time going for the longer trip,like I said the best day of my life,thank you.
Had a great time, the staff at Biggin Hill were great and made it an unforgettable experience
An excellent experience. Professionally briefed and flown by an experienced pilot. Highly recommended.
Be sure to stop by the Biggin Hill chapel, as well. A nice post-script to your flight!
An absolutely wonderful day - a once in a lifetime experience for my 85th birthday from my family. From start to finish everyone at Biggin Hill was most helpful and efficient and the whole place is superbly run - we were lucky enough to have perfect weather as well. I can highly recommend it for anyone who has any interest in Spitfires and flying.
A wonderful experience and all the guys in the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar were really nice and knowledgable. A low cloudbase meant that we were not able to fly for over 5 hours but when the weather cleared off we all went. Mine was the only long flight of the day which meant that I could ask the very nice pilot, Don (ex RNFAA), to fly over my house which we did as I live nearer than the white cliffs of Dover. I was also able to rig up a 1st person Go-pro on my helmet and was able to get some really good photos. All the better with a Spitfire wingtip and roundel covering part of the frame. Just unforgettable!
I had the most amazing experience for my 50th Birthday gift, A dream come true all the staff / crews made the day........Don has and does a great job Highly recommended for any bucket list (start saving again now)
An excellent morning! My wife bought this for my 'special' birthday (I'm not talking about being 18 or 21 now) and I had no idea what to expect. The staff at Biggin Hill were exceptionally helpful, informative and welcoming, and the pilot very experienced and friendly. The flight was unforgettable, with magnificent views and an excellent narrative from the pilot, who lets you take the control stick for some of the flight. The culmination is the barrel (victory) roll, and the whole flight is filmed on two Go-Pro cameras. You are presented with the Go-Pro SD chips to download the flight at home so that you can re-live the experience with your friends. The barrel roll would explain why they don't give you a bacon butty before the flight! A really first class experience - thoroughly recommended. You won't regret or forget it.
A wonderful experience. Taking the controls of a Spitfire as we headed towards the White Cliffs and also doing a victory roll made for an absolutely unforgettable day. All the staff are very friendly and did their best for us all. Anna, our pilot, was brilliant and talked me through the handling of the aircraft as well as pointing out landmarks along the way. Afterwards you can view the other aircraft in the hanger. Very highly recommended.
The Spitfire flight was a fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Though I am 79 I easily coped with accessing the plane (you don't so much sit in a Spitfire as wear it). The ground crew were friendly and helpful at all times. Although passengers have to undergo a risk and safety briefing that some might find scary, my pilot, Don, was very reassuring and inspired confidence. The flight itself was smooth (I have been thrown around more in an airliner) even through the victory roll. The experience of being able to fly the Spitfire myself is the part I shall never forget - several turns and an orbit of Brands Hatch! Altogether a memorable day that I can recommend to anyone.
More than 5 stars !!! An absolutely amazing experience and well worth every penny !!! Bucket list big tick
Best experience ever. Brilliant day out. The flight is a one in a lifetime. I recommend anybody to do this. You get the chance to fly a spitfire and if you ask the pilot he will do a victory roll. They also have 2 cameras in the cockpit which you get the memory cards for. There is also ample opportunities to take photos The staff are helpful and very friendly. You also get a chance to walk around the hangar and look at more spitfires.
A once in a lifetime opportunity to fly the Spitfire - the most iconic fighter aircraft in history. I've flown forward air controller (FAC) aircraft, the A-10 Warthog, and the F-16 Viper, with over 1500 hours of combat time. I consider this experience the pinnacle of my flying career. Thanks, Pete, for a flight I'll never forget. SGW
It was simply marvellous, from start to finish. I have had such a buzz since and I have told so many friends to try it out. The staff all made a huge effort, utterly brilliant
What an amazing experience, from the moment we arrived we were made to feel special. The,staff were really attentive and the facility was clean and comfortable. Everyone was helpful and really made me feel at ease and fully confident to fly in a Spitfire. The flight was truly unbelievable....words can't describe it!!!! The pilot was lovely really friendly, chatting away the whole time, pointing out landmarks,and explaining the procedures and manoeuvres.....the victory roll was fabulous and taking controls of a Spitfire was one of the proudest moments of my life !!!! I can't say how good this whole experience was and I have some lovely souvenir s to keep. Two cockpit videos an great certificate, now proudly displayed in the lounge, flight crew badge Pilot's note book and car sticker...All very high quality. I am over the moon with intotheblue...thank you
I bought this experience as a special birthday present for my wife, Elaine. She had a fabulous day and enjoyed an unforgettable experience flying in a spitfire. All the staff at Biggin Hill, including the pilot, went out of their way to make this a truly memorable occasion. While I didn't fly, I had a great time watching, sharing the excitement and touring the collection of spitfires.
Amazing experience, everything it said It would be and more. Thankyou to everyone who made this such a memorable day.
Kenneth (ken) brimson
After finding a long-lost photo of me at the age of 7 sitting in a Spitfire it was suggested that I might like to repeat the pose at the age of 70. I'm not sure how the posing for a photo turned into my actually taking a flight but I'm so glad it happened. The in-flight video clips reveal just how much I enjoyed the experience.
It's a very professional package and my guests enjoyed the days almost as much as I did.
By coincidence the very same Spitfire has just flown over my house as I write this. This is the third time it has flown overhead since I took my flight a week ago. Maybe this is all part of the package.
Excellent experience, all staff professional and attentative, brilliant overall
There is nothing to compare with the experience of flying the most iconic aircraft ever. To be able to take control for a short time and then complete a victory roll in a Spitfire rates as the best experience possible. The whole crew at Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar make it a most memorable occasion and I would love to do again.
This was my wedding gift to my husband and I have never seen him smile for so long, he was like a kid at christmas. Just seeing his massive smile made me so happy and made the whole experience priceless.
Thank you for giving my husband a life time memory.
What a great experience! have flown in the airlines, but nothing matches the spit! Thanks a lot
Amazing! Concerned about the cost, but WORTH EVERY PENNY.The whole day was well organised, efficient, professional. The staff were very friendly, with a can do attitude and very respectful of an elderly gentleman who was on a flight. View for family etc. was very well thought out, could not fault the day. Think my husband is still up in the air.
What a fantastic day ! Not only was the flight an experience I will never forget, the aircrew made it a special day by giving us 100% dedicated one to one interaction. We were looked after very well and the whole time we felt special
An amazing birthday present, my watch said 20 minutes, but it felt like 20 seconds. A real privilege to fly in such an iconic aeroplane from one of the most important fighter bases of the second world war. Great treatment throughout and good quality video of the flight. Highly recommended. Thanks to all.
As a wartime child, I was raised on tales of the bravery and exploits of our fighter pilots and the crews of Bomber Command, so many of whom laid down their lives to keep us free from oppression. Consequently, for me, it was a privilege to fly in this iconic aeroplane.
All the staff were efficient, helpful and friendly and Jon the ex Fleet Air Arm pilot was very approachable and professional. I have had a modicum of flight training and it was a joy to be given the opportunity to "take control" of this legendary aeroplane, under his supervision. Such a unique experience in such a valuable and historic aircraft does not come cheap, but I thoroughly recommend it. An added bonus was the superb collection of wartime aircraft in the Heritage Hanger.
R. Treasure
This was a once in a lifetime amazing experience! And to top it all, the weather was perfect too!
This experience will remain with me until the day I draw my last breath. I have never been so engrossed in a half-hour period in all my life and probably never will be again. Anyone with the smallest interest in this incredible aircraft, those who flew it in the defence of our country and the eventual destruction of the Third Reich, will be as captivated in the experience as I was. For a few short minutes I flew as they had and smiled at the Earth through the top of my cockpit canopy as the Kent countryside orbited us during our Victory Roll. This, combined with the friendly enthusiasm and unhurried nature of the people we spent time with at the Heritage Hangar made for an experience that I am determined to repeat in the future. Heart-felt thanks to you all, especially the 75 year-old lady that is MJ 627!
I knew about this gift 4 months in advance so enjoyed the anticipation and told so many friends before hand who lined up at the golf club to see me fly over. The actual day exceeded expectations. Flight was amazing. Don't miss out on the hanger visit either. Another winner
Thoroughly enjoyed this great and unique experience. Briefing was spot on in preparing me for the flight, everyone involved was very helpful. Will take pleasure in looking at the mementos of the day for a long time to come. A truly memorable day.
An absolutely fantastic experience. The booking was easy and the day and service was first class. A truly memorable day which was well worth the money. Thanks
Epic afternoon, wanted to do this for years, only complaint is that it passes too quickly, could spend hours in it if only I could. Something I will most likely do again as soon as possible if I can. Just fantastic.
Stunning experience quite literally breathtaking.
A great experience. Well organised with a very professional briefing beforehand to explain the risks involved. Lucky to have perfect weather with good visibility.
A Spitfire flight for my 70th Birthday, what an experience, a big thank you to all the staff and especially the pilot for a fantastic day. I cannot recommend this highly enough, if you love Spitfires then go for it you will not be disappointed.
I was given a flight in a spitfire for my 50th birthday. An absolutely fantastic experience.
What an experience. I cannot recommend this highly enough. The entire day will stay with me for the rest of my life.
The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable which made the pre-flight information is easy to absorb. The pilot, Don, was great to be around and obviously has the "worst" job in the world. He made the whole flight so relaxed and enjoyable. He talked me through everything I needed to know about the flight, and, after about 5 minutes in, handed control of the machine to me, for what seemed an age. Finally he took us through a victory roll. Just Brilliant. If you are considering this, don't, JUST DO IT. You wont regret it.
Just 5 stars doesn't seem enough. This was the ultimate experience of a lifetime. I want to go again, and again, and again ... The staff at the Heritage hangar were all very friendly, helpful and efficient. Don, the pilot, was completely relaxed and reassuring, and let me fly the Spitfire for what felt like ages, before taking back control and doing a Victory Roll. Even without the flight it would have been a great day out just watching the plane take off and land, especially hearing the roar of that Merlin engine when fired up, plus the visit to the two hangers full of Spitfires, a Hurricane, an Me109 and much more, with mechanics working on the planes being happy to chat. What more could you want? A huge thank you to everybody involved and especially my wife for the gift of the experience.
I would like to say a big thank you to Sally, James, Nick, John & the Pilot Don at into the blue for making it a special day for our dad for his surprise 70th birthday present. We had kept this from our dad Daniel for 6 weeks. Daniel loved his present, when he found out he got very emotional & called us a few names for which we forgave him for & Being the 2nd pilot he got to have control of the Spitfire for 5 mins which was a childhood dream. He loved the Victory Roll. The best thing about us being there watching was, seeing five other people taking off & landing, you don't even get that experience at an airshow. We got to walk round the museum & workshop an experience we will never forget. This is a perfect gift, the only other people that have been in these planes are 2nd world war pilots. Daniel has not stopped talking about his flight & thanking us for a great day. Afin we would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to all at Into the Blue. Paul, Surj, Danielle, Caitlin, Martin, Tyrone & of course we mustn't forget the 2nd Pilot Daniel x
A wonderful experience of a lifetime. The people were so friendly and helpful, they helped to make the day what it was. My family were also made welcome as spectators and there was plenty of opportunity to photograph after the flight was over. The only problem was it was over too quickly.
Had a great experience flying with Richard, everybody went the extra mile to make thus happen at the end of their season and we couldn't have wished for better weather - blue sky, sunshine and great visibility in November!
To have had the opportunity to fly in a Spitfire was one of the most fantastic experiences of a lifetime, one that I'll remember for a very long time. Don (the pilot) made the flight feel effortless with his expert handling of the Spitfire and then to be given a chance to have brief control under his supervision was unreal. To end the flight with a Victory Roll was just about as good as it gets! All of the staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit to the Heritage Hanger with the necessary knowledge to make us feel relaxed and part of something special.
Very friendly staff and pilot ( Barry).
Very comprehensive video and oral briefings.
To fly in such an iconic aircraft was a privilege.
Neil Broom
Throughout WWII, I lived and went to school within 300 metres of the shadow factory at Castle Bromwich where they made about 60% of all Spitfires, and have vivid memories of seeing tractors towing Spitfires across the road (Chester Road) from the factory to Castle Bromwich airfield. To have flown a Spitfire from that same factory was fantastic. The atmosphere on the day was wonderful, a combination of friendly and helpful staff, made more so by the buoyant mood of both participants and their families. My wife, son and daughter, all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
Have wanted to fly in a spitfire for a very long time and was not disappointed when I got the chance with into the blue
Very relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff
This was a childhood dream come true. Despite being made possible by a change in law, the opportunity to fly in a Spitfire is a rare and truly awe inspiring experience. The day was well managed with some very special touches including the chance to talk to those working in and running the museum. Also, the weather was perfect!
From the moment we arrived to the time we left we were treated like royalty. There were 4 ladies in my party and we all felt very special. The experience is one we will never forget. Thank you. Julia Casey
The staff at the Heritage Hangar are all very friendly and enthusiastic and made the whole day very special for myself and my family. The flight in the Spitfire with pilot Don Courtenay was a fantastic experience, made all the more special when Don allowed me to take the controls for a large portion of the flight, and imparted lots of interesting information on the handling of this magnificent aircraft. To have flown in a Spitfire, albeit at the lower end of its performance capabilities, and have a "Spitfire" entry in my logbook is a dream I never expected to be realised.
There are, perhaps, a few things one does in this life which can truly be considered a ‘once in a lifetime experience’. Flying a Spitfire is, most certainly, one of those experiences! It really is a tremendous privilege and honour to have taken to the skies in a piece of history. Don Sigournay, pilot for the day, was the archetypal professional in every respect. His knowledge, handling and skill when it came to flying MT818 was second to none. I’ve been a PPL for some 35 years and Don’s skill and ability flying the Spitfire was an absolute delight to experience. We were blessed with probably one of the best days of the year from a weather perspective and this made the flight all the more enjoyable. To say that the Spitfire was meant to fly is the greatest understatement ever. The Spitfire is just so at home in the sky. It makes all other aeroplanes, even today’s great designs, seem somewhat stodgy and out of place. You would never think that a design, over 75 years ago, could be so good ~ a true testament to all those involved in its design and development. The whole day, from start to finish was quite magical and something I will never forget. Thank you for the opportunity and I wish you continued success in providing this experience. Nick Walker
What an amazing experience this was, the best adrenaline rush I have ever had. The staff were excellent and made the whole event enjoyable for me and my wifely ground crew.
I hope I get another wonderful day like this every birthday.
Excellent day, superb machine with phenomenal capabilities.
An amazing experience which surpassed my expectations, very friendly staff a well organised experience.
Excellent. Just. Excellent. Very well looked after. 10. Outer 10 thank you
I did the 2 seat spitfire flight form the Heritage Hanger at Biggin Hill a little over a week ago, and really enjoyed it. It was a fabulous experience and fulfilled a boyhood dream.
I grew up in the 70s, RAF and Airplane mad, and the Spitfire was just iconic. I wanted to be an RAF pilot my entire childhood, but they, in their wisdom, decided we were not a good fit, so for years I presumed that a Spitfire flight was beyond me. I am like thousands of people who thought it could never be. When I found out it was possible, I jumped at the change and don't regret it for a second.
Booking was done over the phone months ago, I don't recall any problems, it was all straightforward. The day itself, Barry was my pilot and was extremely helpful. His calm, confident attitude and demeanour meant that pre-flight nerves were not an issue. The pre-flight briefing, covered inflight safety, a risk assessment, emergency exit procedures and other necessary things, which just heightened the anticipation and excitement. Everything I needed to know or be aware of was covered and questions answered in a friendly professional manner. Pilot and passenger are in radio contact throughout the flight. A parachute is provided but has never been needed.
The flight itself was super. Weather was changeable, cloudy but not too much, so we could see the ground from 2000ft and avoided rain showers. Barry pointed out features and made sure I was OK in the back. A couple of minutes at the controls was an absolute highlight, fairly basic stuff but to be at the controls of such a thoroughbred!!! Words cannot describe the noise, vibration, smell, power and grace of this airplane. A Barrel Roll showed off its agility, the engine was at idle, pulling us along at about 200 mph, so we hardly scratched the surface of its abilities.
The flight was over all too soon, we could have gone to Paris, it wouldn’t have been far enough. We came in to land, and more photo opportunities. What a fabulous experience. Not many folk can say they flew a Spitfire, even fewer now than in the past, but those who have love it with good reason. Yes it’s pricy, but what price do you put on your dreams. If it’s a bucket list item or a childhood dream, I can highly recommend this experience.
After coming back down to land, physically and mentally, we spent some time wandering around the hanger where lots more Spits were in various stages of renovation or maintenance. An ME109 and a Hurricane completed the collection. Given time, this Heritage Hanger will evolve and have more and more airworthy vintage planes. What a Treat. I loved the entire day. I’m now a spitfire pilot (well almost) and this day was my homage to the brave Few. John
Incredible 'Once in a lifetime' experience. To do a Victory Roll and be able to take the joystick and fly this amazing aircraft was beyond my wildest expectations of this experience. Also, allowed to take many pictures before and after, and my wife was allowed to sit in cockpit after my flight for a photo.
If funds allow - go for it!
Its a chance to live a childhood dream. We were made to feel welcome from the moment we arrived to leaving many hours later. The hangars were amazing and engineers willing to answer any questions. The flight itself was over all too soon but demonstrated the best in aviation experiences.
Totally awesome experience. The staff at The Heritage Centre are so friendly, and knowledgeable, thank you John. The pilots are just fantastic, a big thank you to Don and Richard who made my flight so special. The Victory roll just has to be done. If you get the chance to fly in a Spitfire don't hesitate, not even for a second!
Absolutley fantastic, 2 days after my flight I'm still buzzing !
This was a birthday surprise from my wonderful wife of 47 years. It was an experience of a lifetime, for me and many others of us older generation the Spitfire is the most iconic plane to come out of the last century. As others have said to actually fly in a Spitfire cannot be adequately put into words. Barry the pilot even let me have a go, the feather light controls are amazing, my admiration for those few who flew them in combat has increased manifold. Must admit though my stomach still had not settled all the next day, but I would not have missed it for the world.
A once in a life time experience which was enhanced by the pilot Anna Walker who was fantastic and made it feel like it was her first flight! A mini flying lesson and to cap it all a victory roll in the most famous plane in the world - an absolute triumph. The flight "flew" past and it felt like 10 minutes but it will last a life time. Thanks to everybody involved especially Anna.
Douglas Wilson
Every assistance was given to make my flight a memorable experience.
It's a day I will never forget,the adrenaline was high for two or three days.
thanks to Chris Don and all the Maintenance staff for their dedication,and making the experience so unforgettable. The flight was a 70th birthday present and a pleasure trip,but during the flight I thought of all those young boys who sacrificed their lives to give us the freedom we have today "God bless them".
Thanks again Albert Welford
A fantastic day. I'm very rarely lost for words but it has been 5 days since my flight and a still can't put in to words how I feel.
Thank you to everyone at Into the Blue and the Heritage Hanger for making it so special, Especially to James his manner made you feel so at ease, Don for flying the Spitfire so beautifully and letting me take control and to all the engineers who keep this wonderful machine Flying.
A bucket list experience that was just out of this world! Everybody involved their is just so passionate about the whole thing that comes across so obviously to yourself! AMAZING! THANK YOU!!
Re:- Spitfire flight, 29th June
Thank you . It was a really super surprise treat for my husband. He was truly thrilled and loved every minute. My only complaint is that he is in danger of becoming a Spitfire bore as a consequence!!!
Beautifully organised and very impressed by preparation. Particularly appreciated being contacted in advance for early briefing to allow for early flight because of uncertain weather.
Best wishes to you all – Hilary Sinclair
My wife arranged this as a surprise birthday treat. Until I saw the plane, I had no idea what was arranged. As a past "Biggles" fan, I was thrilled; I had never expected anything like this! I was amazed and had an ear-to-ear grin on for the entirety of my flight. I still have it! Many thanks for this opportunity; it was beyond my wildest dreams.
Best wishes to all the team,
Tony Sinclair
Excellent service from the initial booking to the very end of our hanger visit and flight. So pleased I booked this to celebrate my father's 80th birthday - he had the time of his life. We too were dodging the unpredictable weather and everyone at Biggin Hill did all they could to facilitate us. Thank you to all the lovely staff who made us feel welcome and for giving my dad such a fantastic experience. None of us will forget that day.
What a fantastic day, from start to walking out of the hanger door, friendly staff with knowledge and time to explain things and answer questions.
The video will be a lasting reminder along with the shoulder cam view.
Best ever experience, thanks Don & James, also the guy's that keep the beautiful craft flying.
Steve Wiseman
I had a ball..now saving for another go.. nice people ..so busy yet so helpful .. richard gave me a lift to the bus (offered to drop me off closer to the town ) lots of info..and even came back to return the video I lost without knowing... directions to where you are need updating on the field..the web to ? Well worth the trip.thanks to them all..
A great day on the best flying weather of the year so far. This was a birthday treat which fulfilled a boyhood dream and "worth growing old for".
Special thanks to young James who looked after my wife and myself very well throughout the visit. Thanks also to my pilot Don who gave me an excellent flight and a lot of hands-on flying. The workshops were extremely interesting, being able to see so many 'planes as work in progress was a treat.
The whole experience from reporting to leaving was excellent and the staff were friendly and considerate.
Not quite sure how I can better some of the other reviews except to say that I intend to sell the house, the car (all of them), the children, the Wife (bless her, I will miss her!), the dog and anything else I can lay my hands on to buy one of these wonderful machines. I'll then work out how in God's name I will learn to fly it and pay for the upkeep. In the meantime I will just carry on dreaming and I am sure I'll wake up soon.
"A moment in time is only really appreciated when it becomes a memory".
Thank you all at the Heritage Hanger for the memories that I will spen a very long time appreciating.
Martin Wilkins
A great day alas let down slightly by the British Weather. Having said that our experience started with an overnight stay in one of the hotels recommended which was superb. We arrived in good time to the Heritage Hanger and James briefed us and got us ready. Then after the first flight the pilot came in and explained the situation about the weather. Fortunately one of the Volunteers was on hand and he took my group around the Heritage hanger and explained what was going on and the history of the various aircraft and vehicles, which was brilliant. After about 90 mins flights resumed and i got a chance to go flying. The Pilot Don was brilliant always explaining things and I got a chance to take control for a couple of minutes. The best bits were definitely taking control of the spitfire, the barrel roll and coming into land. The video and picture were great perhaps a front facing video would have been fun as well but i cant fault the experience, brilliant. Thank you to all the team, Pilot, Helpers and Volunteers.
I have waited nearly 50 years for the chance to fly in a Spit. The day was fantastic, the weather was sunny but hazy which made things harder for me to fly the beautiful beast properly being out of practice...
My pilot was very patient with me and all I can add is that it was a wonderful day which I would recommend to anyone with an interest in flying. I was left with an even deeper admiration for the guys who flew in anger and of course for R.J. Mitchell and the engineers who designed and built this fantastic machine. I must save up for another flight!
I knew that it was going to be brilliant but it was even better. Don the pilot made it special for me as we flew over my house in West Malling & we did some aerobatics for the neighbours. It was a great day for me & also for my guests which was a nice touch. The real star is the plane itself - what an absolute darling - love at first sight !
I had a most enjoyable day and was looked after extremely well, my flight having been postponed the previous day due to the weather conditions. James was extremely helpful and knowledgable. My pilot was also extremely pleasant and helpful which made the flight a total pleasure. Thanks to all at the Heritage Hanger.
Trevor Hobrough
Brilliant experience which I treated my husband as a surprise 83rd birthday, it was top of his bucket list. We took loads of photos and it was an excellent day out for myself, my daughter and grandson. Ann our lovely lady pilot was so friendly and made the flight really exciting. My husband was hoping to do some aerobatics but could only do the victory roll because of low cloud, James was really friendly and helpful, Sorry for the delay in sending this review. A birthday which will not be forgotten.Thank you for the experience of a lifetime.
Doreen and Mick Robinson
Just as I imagined only better!
I was told that my experience would be at 12 noon and had to be there 90 minutes beforehand but upon arrival and waiting around I was informed that the briefing was at noon and my flight would be at 1.45pm they need to emphasise this more clearly. The hangar tour didn't materialise as the admin staff didn't really know much about that and I ended up tagging onto another tour and generally finding my own way around. The administration was poor and none of the staff seemed to know what was going to happen next. When we had to wait for Don the pilot to have his lunch break we had to return to the airport main entrance for refreshment. It would've been nice if there were facilities on site as this experience isn't cheap, I'm sure this could be included. The staff were friendly and polite, the flight was unforgettable but on the admin side there is a lot of room for improvement. Phil.
This is a fantastic unforgettable experience for anyone interested in flying and particularly 2nd world war planes. James the man on the ground has a dream job for a just left school enthusiast and is learning well. Don our pilot was very informative and a great pilot. I could see how hard he was having to work the controls to land on a windy day but unless you were looking at the rudder bars and stick you would never have guessed it was windy. The whole operation is friendly and laid back. They have morning and afternoon sessions and try to work with one briefing for each session but were very accommodating when one person failed to show and my friend who went to take photos decided to fly. When waiting for your flight you can see the others fly and tour the 2 hangers, chat to the staff and generally relax. If you can afford to do this you will not regret it. How many people since the war can actually say they have flown a Spitfire.
Arrived in good time. However, the general administration on site was a shambles with no direction. The person in charge was not helpful and was directed to James. I had to seek out the waiting lounge and question a flight time that was defined as second of the afternoon session. We booked this experience based on being able to take our dog with us. This was not permitted on the day and was a real restriction. The young man, James, was left to do everything on the day from processing bookings, flight briefs, re-fuelling the aircraft and managing the safety brief for those who were flying. I had to sign the mandatory paperwork in the aircraft as this was overlooked. The flying experience was fantastic. I had to chase James again for my certificate etc and had o wait for Don the pilot to return from a flight to have this signed off. The poor administration and lack of attention to detail on the day tarnished what should have been a trip of a lifetime. Had we be informed on the day of the flight time we would have had time to take in the chapel as this is a drive away. This is not a cheap experience and should have been better managed from start to finish.
Thanks to pilot Don I had a blast. Thanks to James for all his efforts.
It was an absolutely amazing day
Fortunately I had not read fully the itinerary an just expected to sit behind a pilot and look out of the window between Biggin Hill and the White Cliffs of Dover. When I was asked " Do you want to take over the controls" I was amazed.........I flew a Spitfire which is a beautiful aeroplane the controls were light and amazingly responsive for a tiny stick movement, but.........I let Bob the pilot do the barrel role for me
An experience to remember and a pilot who helped me get the best out of the day. With my briefing being 12noon I did not think there might be so many to fly before me so having arrived very early it was a long wait being the last one but well worth it. Thank you.
Every thing was great from arrival to getting back in the car. I am still flying 50 hours after landing. The only way it could have been improved was crusty bread for the bacon sandwich in the cafe. Best day I've have had since winning a motorcycle race in 2008.
brilliant day, flying spitfires from Biggin Hill was a boy hood dream made true by both my wife and the guys at the Heritage Hanger. Would recommend this to anyone that has a love for Spitfires.
An absolutely fabulous experience and a must for your bucket list !!!.
Beautiful on the ground the Spitfire is smooth and incredibly responsive
in flight , a joy and must thank my good lady for the fantastic gift .
I had a really good time and was well looked after by young James.
From first contact until I left the hangar, the staff made us very relaxed and comfortable. The flight was fantastic and something I've dreamt about for over twenty years! I did not expect to 'fly' the Spitfire for as long as I did. Enjoyed the victory roll at the end too!
Many thanks to Paul C, James and Don for a fantastic morning!
Incredible experience took my hours to get the grin off my face
The flight was everything that I expected,the staff were all very good and explained everything clearly...The instruction in case of emergency "Just jump out" made me smile---As a skydiver with a lot experience jumping many types of aircraft---It's what's commonly known as a "Tight exit"..(Very tight).Pilot and crew all excellent,great fun and money well wasted! I'd do it again if "The Boss" would stand for it....KC.
When I was learning to fly more than 60 years ago, I used to see a Spitfire each morning climbing away to do a weather check. It was a magnificent sight and I have admired it at numerous air shows over the years. I have always wanted to fly it. I stopped flying in 1957 and thought I would never have the chance to fly the Spitfire.
I was given a wonderful surprise by my wife and family for my 80th. birthday - a flight in a Spitfire.
I flew on the 12th. August, the glorious 12th. (but not so for the usual reason).
I and my family have nothing but praise for the friendliness and professionalism of all the staff we met or contacted from the initial enquiry to leaving the site after flying.
Thank you very much I really did enjoy the experience of flying again and in a Spitfire!
A fantastic experience, you see these marvellous planes flying at displays, then you get the chance to fly in one. Great commentary from the pilot Dan, who made it sound so simple to maintain the speed and altitude when you were allowed to take control, it wasn't but the experience will stay with me forever. If you get the chance take it.
I thought it was absolutely fantastic. Best experience ever. I can't fault the entire day.
Absolutely brilliant. The best experience I have ever had - a childhood dream come true. Richard the Pilot and the other members of staff were extremely kind and helpful and being allowed to take control of the Spitfire for a short while was thrilling. I went for an extended flight which meant I could fly along the White Cliffs at Beachy Head and along the coast and this was, what I would call, real Spitfire country !!!!!
It's almost impossible to find words to describe my lifetime ambition being acheived by flying in a Spitfire from Biggin Hill and being allowed to take the controls over the Thames. Dan (the pilot) made the flight an absolutely mind-blowing experience explaining and showing how wonderful the aircraft is over 'dog-fighting' Kent. The victory rolls and the turns were just superb. Even though the flight was delayed because of a puncture, the staff still managed to make the whole day an absolute delight. It was great that my family were able to be part of the experience and they certainly enjoyed the restoration hanger. My thanks to everyone (especially Dan and Paul) for making it a day that my family and I will never forget and treasure for always. Here's to the next time!
I'd like to say this is a once in a lifetime experience, but hopefully I'll get to do it again. :) I can sum it up in one word, humbling. The staff were great, and its interesting to see the behind the scenes in the hanger.
Only 2 downers, but they're really not anything to be concerned about, the positives far outway the negatives, but I want this to be an honest review.
The first is that my group didn't really understand the hanger experience, there were some desks and items set up, but I think we were expecting a guide to take us around and talk about things. I guess its a working environment and thats to be respected, but there was a Spitfire with its bonnet up so to speak and it would've been nice to see inside rather then view from a far.
The other point is a bit nit picky, I'm sorry! (I come from a TV background). It was a real bonus to get a video of the experience, as I wasn't expecting it, but it was 30fps and only 1 angle. I was able to frame rate convert mine, however others may struggle with this (UK is 25fps). I think its just a camera setting that can fix this for others. My wish list would be another camera in the cockpit pointing at you enjoying the experience. And to be extra special, an external ground remote camera like the ones used on driving track days, at the end of the runway to capture the moment of take off. Track day cameras are high speed stills cameras, so I wouldn't expect video, but an A4 sized photo of take off would be something I'd pay for if it was an optional extra.
Overall it was a excellent and I hope to experience it again one day!
We had an unfortunate delay due to airplane tyre problems. This took several hours to fix., although the staff were apologetic, no offer of free drink was made to help the situation. £1 for a Cofi after paying such a large sum for the flight was disappointing. Flight was amazing tho. Worth the wait.
Everyone at Biggin Hill was charming and very helpful. The flight was wonderful and the pilot very knowledgeable. A fantastic experience one I would recommend to anyone. John Goddard
This was an immensely enjoyable experience. Not to be missed.
I think that it could be improved even further, for example someone, the pilot preferably, could, more formally, explain the route to be flown and the manoeuvres the plane would perform. An explanation of the planes in the hanger would have been interesting as we had no hanger tour. I think there are also an opportunity to enhance the experience why not offer on the day a chance to sit in the front seat of a spitfire, especially attractive if it was facsimile of a Battle of Britain cockpit. The souvenirs could be extended with more books, DVDs and patches, all sources of more revenue to keep this plane flying!.
This was a day to remember As a schoolboy at the begining of the war every boy in my school wanted to be a Spitfire pilot (poor old Hurri boys never got a look in) The whole staff at Biggin were super, friendly,knowledgeable and most helpful. Words fail me to say just how I feel even now and I will be coming back again when hopefully the weather will be good enough for me to be able to roll. Thank you Everyone
A great day out. All the staff were very knowledgeable and friendly. The weather caused the flight to be postponed but a new date was arranged before we left. We look forward to rearranged flight.
First and foremost the flight was amazing!!! (but then I have wanted to do this for a long time) my cheeks are hurting from all the grinning. The guys there were very knowledgeable about the planes, history etc when you asked the question. The pilot was great talking you through the flight. Generally they could not do enough for you (if you ask) e.g. photo by the plane - so always ask they can only say no. The framed certificate/badge of the actual plane was a really nice touch. Although the staff were all friendly enough there wasn't the organisation/scripting I would have expected for a days out event especially an expensive one like this (the name suggests museum but essentially its a work shop with a few WW artifacts where there is room with one of mechanics . Again there was mention of a hanger tour but I had to mention it rather than it necessarily being part of the experience, that said Paul was happy to do, though a script of interesting points would be good e.g. look at the part numbers, how original they are, the process, etc. I am sure he know loads of stuff that I didn't know to ask the question). In hind sight a tour of a plane before going up would have been good with a bit of history xx guns go here, you normally fly at xx feet at xx knots for xx time, there was a map so seeing where you are going to fly, etc. To be fair Paul didn't seem to stop, he was rushing around all day trying to get everything done for everybody.
Also I would have loved to see the war time flight log (maybe they could put it on the website)? The possibility of seeing the other spitfires they owned would have been good but as I say its not a museum?
..But hey its the spitfire I came for and that didn't disappoint!! If I had the money I would do it again.
Brilliant. Everything I thought it would be - and more.
awesome day out, very well run. friendly and professional staff helped make a once in a life time experience all the more memorable.
What an amazing day! The people at Biggin Hill were so helpful and Dan, the pilot, was so helpful at putting me at ease and encouraging me to take the controls during the flight. It was a dream come true for me to not only fly in but actually take control of a Spitfire and made my 60th birthday treat truly special. The Movie of the flight they give you is a terrific momento and great way to show friends and family what you had experienced.
Amazing I'm 86 and wanted to fly in one since being 8 yrs old and it was everything I expected and more hope to do it again. Thank you for the experience
Flying in the Spitfire was a truly amazing experience and the realisation of a boyhood ambition. The flight briefing and preparation was professional and assuring. There was no pressure whatsoever to carry on if in doubt about risks or flying, etc.
The flight itself was incredible and was enhanced by my pilot Richard's commentary on what he was doing and also by exceeding my wishes regarding some aerobatics - wonderful !
As if that wasn't enough, I had the incredibly good fortune to have an impromptu tail chase and flypast with the collection's MkV Spitfire that took off after us.
My thanks go to everyone involved at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar.
An excellent day run by professional people
Excellent, an unmissable experience
A dream come true, an amazing experience in a professional and relaxed atmosphere. To be able to fly in a Spitfire is an opportunity of a lifetime and one I will never forget. Thank You Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger.
Today I did something that I have always wanted to do, it was fantastic. The staff were all very good, the whole experience was wonderful,
May be expensive but worth every penny as the cost of keeping these vintage spitfires flying is very high,The staff are very friendly and welcoming as was my pilot .I used to watch the combats over the Weald in 1940 as a young boy and ever since have wanted fly in a spitfire my dream has now been realised on my 83rd birthday an amazing day with the family
would do it all over again Still up in the sky nearly a week later.
Thanks to all at Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger for a brilliant afternoon. I had a fantastic time with the highlight of course being the flight, even my teenage daughters enjoyed spending time around these wonderful aeroplanes.
Thanks to all the staff at Biggin Hill and the Heritage Hanger for an amazing day. My father had an unforgettable Spitfire flight.
A friendly welcome and my guests were made comfortable. All risks and emergency procedures were clearly explained.Flight was on time and the pilot met my requested route. The flight itself was unforgettable and I enjoyed every minute. The intercom was distorted and this could be improved. Nice signed certificate to go up on my wall.
Best day ever ! I could use words like amazing, mind-blowing, etc, none of which can really do justice to this. The staff are brilliant, everything was brilliant, and two days later I'm still hopping about telling all my friends. ABSOLUTELY MUST DO BUCKET LIST ITEM.
totally stunning! I shall forever develop a stupid grin whenever 'Spitfire' is mentioned.
RJ MITCHELL`S SUPERB AIRFRAME TOGETHER WITH THE ROLLS- ROYCE MERLIN - A MARRIAGE MADE IN THE HEAVENS! UTTERLY INTOXICATING AND THEN AT LAST TO ACTUALLY FLY-`NUFF SAID. JUST DO IT!
I was given a flight in a two-seater Spitfire as a 70th birthday present and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The staff at Biggin Hill took good care of all the details and coped with two postponements. The pilot was excellent and I had the pleasure of a short time in control. The flight included two Victory Rolls for good measure!
Les Fillery
06 August 2024
The staff are great and make you feel very special. It’s a magical experience.
