Flying Legends 2003 Imperial War Museum - Duxford

The Flying Legends Experience The wonderful sight and sound of warbirds in flight Duxford 2003-2012

The Fighter Collection (TFC) team headed by warbird owner and pilot Stephen Grey, organised the first Flying Legends air show way back in 1994. It was based on the success of the one day Classic Fighter show held between 1989 and 1993 which was run jointly with the Old Flying Machine Company (OFMC), who are also based at Duxford. The now two-day show with a theme of nothing but classic propeller-driven warbirds and no jets, has proved to be a very successful formula. Many warbird groups are now regular participators, working with TFC to produce UK's best warbird show. Co-operation with the Amicale Jean-Baptiste Salis team who are behind older French annual warbird show held at La Ferté-Alais near Paris, has worked well with many UK and French aircraft now participating at both shows.

The Imperial War Museum's Avro Vulcan and the SCFA Super Constellation spotlighted behind the impressive line up of Warbirds in 2004.

Along with TFC the Imperial War Museum (IWM) and American Air Museum (AAM), plus several warbird restoration companies are also to be found at Duxford, including; the Old Flying Machine Company (OFMC), the Historic Aircraft Collection (HAC) and Historic Flying Limited (HFL). Duxford is truly Britain's premier home for warbirds. Both the non-flying museum aircraft and the priceless flyable ones are available for close inspection throughout the year, including other air show days run by IWM. Other guest restoration groups regularly attend Flying Legends, notably the Real Aeroplane Company (RAC) who are based at Breighton in Yorkshire. Also there are the individual warbird owners who by invitation join the warbird party and each year there is always something new. Jane Larcombe of TFC in 2008 said, "Each year, we endeavour to make Flying Legends even better than the year before. The air show takes over twelve months in the planning to bring over three hours of non-stop flying on both days." Each year amazingly they manage to entice aircraft to attend the show for the first time whether they are recent restorations or acquisitions, adding to the expanding list of old favourites. Always looking for a 'first' or something unique, TFC will encourage owners to attend from right across the world, perhaps to make a first appearance of an actual aircraft type since it ceased military service. In 2004 for example, the P-39Q Airacobra 'Brooklyn Bum 2nd' flew in the UK for the first time in 60 years. Warbirds by their nature are very rare often with only a few examples still flying in the world, some are even unique. Appearing in 2005 was the only SAAB B17A dive-bomber from Sweden and in 2007 the only airworthy Morane-Saulnier MS.406 arriving from its Swiss home. At Flying Legends great effort is made to fly unusual or unique formations of aircraft. The TFC team will also gather as many of an aircraft type together that can be found, whether it is a dozen Supermarine Spitfires or half dozen or more Mustangs. Its all about providing a wonderful experience for the ticket buying public, who provide vital funds required to keep this flying history in the air.

The warbird line-up during the flight line walk in 2011.

The Flying Legends Experience Some warplane enthusiasts just go to watch and listen, most bring a camera and want to get as close as possible. Flying Legends offers some great opportunities for photography. The flying starts at 14:00 but there is plenty to do and see from when the gates open at 08:00. A flight line walk is also available but at an extra cost for a few hours during the morning. You can talk to the mechanics, numerous volunteers and even to the pilots, if you are in the right place at the right time. Everyone involved loves to talk about their aircraft with a passion. Each aircraft will taxi out and return close to the crowd line, giving you the chance to get exciting close-up shots with whatever photographic equipment you use.  Once the aircraft are airborne the photography is wonderful, despite the south facing crowd line which creates some challenges whilst offering interesting lighting effects. The aerial choreography of loose formations is nothing like those of the Red Arrows, it appears to be more of ad hoc follow-the-leader approach. This is far from the truth of course, the mornings extensive flight briefings make sure that each pilot is certain as to what is expected of him. The flying routines must be carefully thought out for safety reasons, but they have the feel of pilots diving down over an ex-wartime airfield for their shear pleasure. There are solo performances, but Flying Legends comes into it's own when the groups of similar or contemporary aircraft from the same war theatre take to the air together. Mass takeoffs will split into smaller flights, to fly across the airfield in every direction in quick succession. Formations will split in to two groups for the popular opposition tail-chasing figure of eight routine to 'attack' the airfield at low-level. For both the photographer and spectator this is pure breath taking excitement, you are never sure where to look or point your camera next. Each show would not be complete with the 'balbo' finale. Virtually all the aircraft that have displayed throughout the day, numbering around 25 to 30, following a mass launch link up for one unique and very impressive formation. This is not a show that you go to once, you have to go back year after year to see what's new and to relive the warbird experience.

Flying Legends 2010 line up, headed by eight Spitfires.

The Close Formations Left to right: Two Mustangs 'Ferocious Frankie' and 'Miss Velma' provide an escort for B-17 'Liberty Belle' in 2008. The Shuttleworth Collection's Gloster Gladiator and Hawker Sea Hurricane in 2008. North American P-51C Mustang 'Princess Elizabeth' (43-25147 'HO-W' registered G-PSIC) with TFC stable mate P-51D Mustang 'Twilight Tear' (44-63864 'HL-W' registered G-CBNM) in 2005. Grumman F-7F Tigercat Last appearance at Flying Legends in 2006.

Left to right: ‘The Horsemen’ from the United States, the world’s only P-51 Mustang aerobatic team flying in three UK based Mustangs they headlined the 2009 show. A formation of a trio of B-25 Mitchells; B-25D ‘Grumpy’ of Vulcan Warbirds, B-25J 'Sarinah'of the RNAF Historic Flight ‘Duke of Brabant Air Force’ and B-25J of Societe de Developpement et de Promotion de L' Aviation (SDPA) in 2009. North American B-25D Mitchell (N88972) ‘Grumpy’ of Vulcan Warbirds and B-25J (45-8811) of Societe de Developpement et de Promotion de L' Aviation (SDPA) join in close formation in 2009. Douglas AD-4NA Skyraider (126922 'H-503' registered G-RADR) of Kennet Aviation in its new scheme with Douglas AD-4NA Skyraider (124143 'RM-205' registered F-AZDP) of Amicale Jean-Baptiste Salis (AJBS) from La Ferté-Alais in 2011.

Head-on Action Left to right: P-51D Mustang ('44-13704 B7-H' really 44-73149 / G-BTCD) 'Ferocious Frankie' in 2008. Fury FB.11 (F-AZXL ‘369’) in a Royal Australian Navy scheme in 2010. Vickers-Supermarine Spitfire LF.5B (EP120 'AE-A' / G-LFVB) of The Fighter Collection in 2012. Stephen Grey's (TFC) Spitfire FR.14E ('MV268 JE-J' really MV293 / G-SPIT) in 2004.

Get in Close Left to right: Hawker Nimrod Mk.1 (S1581 '573' / G-BWWK) of Historic Aircraft Collection (HAC) in 2010. North American P-51D-25 Mustang ('44-14450 B6-S' really 44-73877 / N167F) 'Old Crow' of the Scandinavian Historic Flight in 2006 and 2007. Hawker Sea Fury T.20 (WG655 '910' / NX20MD) waiting for ATC clearance to starts its display in 2009.

Left to right: Liberty Foundation's Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress ('42-97849' really 44-85734 / N390TH) 'Liberty Belle' in 2008. French based B-17G Flying Fortress (44-8846 coded 'DS-M' / F-AZDX) 'Pink Lady' is operated by the Association Fortresse Toujours Volant en France in 2006. Douglas C-53D Skytrooper (42-68823 / 11750 / LN-WND) of Foundation Dakota Norway in 2010 and in 2012.

For an extra bit of realism Flying Legends is not just an air show, its full of atmosphere and nostalgia. Various groups dress up in historical costumes to add a little extra to some of the shots to give it that period feel.

Warbirds from the Inside Douglas C-53D Skytrooper (42-68823 / 11750 / LN-WND) of Foundation Dakota Norway in 2010. Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress ' Liberty Belle' for a reasonable amount of money you were able to walk through the World War Two bomber in 2008.

The 'Players' (Past and Present) The Fighter Collection (TFC) based at Duxford.

Left to right: Curtis Hawk 75A-1 (No.82 'X8-81') it is the only flyable ex L'Armée de l'Air Hawk in existence. It first appeared at Legends in 2005 following its restoration. Seen here in 2008. Vought FG-1D Corsair ('KD345 130' / 88297 / G-FGID) when appearing in 2008. Grumman F-8F-2P Bearcat (121714 'B-201' / G-RUMM) in 2012. Curtiss P-40B Warhawk ('284' '18P' 41-13297 / G-CDWH) in 2008. This aircraft is believed to be the only survivor from the attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941. It was eventually lost over Hawaii, the wreck was salvaged in 1985 and 1989. Restoration using parts from to other wrecks, was carried out by the Curtis Wright Historical Association and the Project Tomahawk of Torrance. With the restoration complete it flew once again in January 2007 and was shipped by TFC to the UK to appear at the 2007 Flying Legends show.

Left to right: Bell P-39Q Airacobra (42-19993 / G-CEJU) inscribed 'Brooklyn Bum – 2nd' it first flew in 1943 and operated in the South Pacific. Left behind in New Guinea it was not until 1974 that it was recovered. After being displayed in New Zealand it later passed through Florida and on to TFC at Chino in California for restoration. Mounted in the nose is a 37mm cannon and with its tricycle undercarriage it is certainly a distinctive bird. It is one of only two examples still flying in the world today and was the first example to grace Britain's skies since the 1940s when it first displayed in 2004. Grumman FM-2 Wildcat ('JV579 F' really 86711 / G-RUMW ex N4845V). The Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm employed Wildcats from 1940 in the fighter escort role. This particular aircraft flew for the first time in 30 years in 1993, following restoration by the Yanks Air Museum and Fighter Rebuilders of Chino, California. It was later transported by sea to the UK and on to Duxford. It is currently the only Wildcat flying in Europe. It has a maximum speed of 332 mph and range of 900 miles. Beechcraft D.17S Staggerwing / UC-43 Traveller (23689 / G-BRVE) this warbird is seen on approach to Duxford in 2008. Supermarine Spitfire FR.14E ('MV268 JE-J' really MV293 / G-SPIT) in 2008.

Left to right: Vickers-Supermarine Spitfire LF.5B (EP120 'AE-A' / G-LFVB) in 2006. North American TF-51D-25 Mustang (44-84847 'CY-D' / NX251RJ) 'Miss Velma' was acquired in 1999 by TFC, it was converted to a two-seat and flown to Duxford in July 2007 and seen here in 2012. Bristol F.2B Fighter (D-8084 coded 'S' / G-ACAA) in 2006. Hawker Nimrod 1 (S1581 '573' / G-BWWK). The Nimrod was a single-seat fighter, it first flew in 1930 and went in to service with the Fleet Air Arm. However by the start of the World War Two it had been relegated to training duties. S1581 was recovered from Coley's Scrapyard in the early 70s and passed to the Royal Air Force Museum (RAFM). Later Aero Vintage bought it and started restoration work in 1994 with Historic Aircraft Collection (HAC) completing the work and returning it to flying condition by July 2000. In 2002 it was exchanged for a Hurricane owned by TFC. This is one of only two surviving Nimrods (see HAC below) and was the first to be returned to flying condition. Seen here in 2004.

Left to right: Curtiss (Republic) P-47G-10-CU Thunderbolt  (225068 'W-D' / G-CDVX) 'Snafu' which arrived at Duxford in 2006 and was rolled out in June 2011. It did not fly at Flying Legends 2011 when this images was taken. North American P-51D Mustang (44-63684 'HL-W' /G-CBNM) 'Twilight Tear' of TFC which returned to Duxford where it was originally based during the World War Two with the 78th Fighter Group (USAAF) and in whose colours it has again been painted, seen here in 2003. Curtis P-40M Kittyhawk (43-5802 '49' / G-KITT) in 2005. Bücker Bü133c Jungmeister ('LG+01' / G-AYSJ) when with TFC in 2004, it was later sold.

Left to right: Grumman F6F-5K Hellcat (40467 '19' registered G-BTCC) in a US Navy scheme from its time in the Pacific during World War Two. This Hellcat is the only example flying outside the States. It was built in 1943 and flew with VF-6 (as depicted) and VF-18 before being retired with only 318 flying hours on the clock in 1944. Restoration started in 1990 at 'Planes of Fame' of Chino, California before being completed by TFC. She has a maximum speed of 380 mph and range of 945 miles. Republic P-47M Thunderbolt ('42-26671' registered G-THUN) 'No Guts - No Glory!' during it's final show before being shipped off to Chino, California where it was be put up for sale, it apparently became N147PF in 2007. This 'Jug' as P-47s are affectionately known, was built in 1945 with the serial 45-49192. Following a period of storage, it was restored in 1952 and transferred to the Peruvian Air Force in 1953. It was eventually retired from military service in 1967. By 1971 it had been bought by enthusiast Ed Jurist and returned to the States. Following a succession of private owners it made its way to TFC at Duxford towards the end of 1984. TFC applied serial '42-26671' and code MX-X to depict the aircraft flown by Lt Col Ben Mayo, CO of the 82nd Fighter Squadron, 78th Fighter Group when based at Duxford for the last two years of the war. Grumman F-7F-3P Tigercat (80425 'WT-14' registered G-RUMT and N7235C) with TFC in 2003 before returning to the US after the 2006 show. Curtiss P-40 Warhawk (41-19841 registered VH-PIV) named 'Lee's hope' made its first flight in the UK on Saturday July 9, 2011 the morning of Flying Legends flown by Steve Hinton. Built in 1942 41-19841 little is known of it's service history it was struck off charge in November 1943 and abandoned on the island of Espiritu Santo which is part of Vanatu in the Pacific. It was recovered in the 1970s and stored in Australia for sometime until restoration was carried out by Precision Aerospace Productions for TFC in the markings of USAAF's 85th Fighter Squadron as flown in Italy during 1944. It was shipped to the UK arriving at Duxford on July 4, 2011. It was againseen here flying in 2012.

Old Flying Machine Company (OFMC) based at Duxford.

Left to right: North American P-51D Mustang ('44-13704 B7-H' really 44-73149 / G-BTCD) inscribed 'Ferocious Frankie' in 2008. North American P-51D Mustang (472218 'WZ-I' / D-FBBD formally G-HAEC) inscribed 'Big Beautiful Doll' it was written off after colliding with a Skyraider the next day at Legends 2011. Supermarine Spitfire LF.9C (MH434 'ZD-B' / G-ASJV) in 2008. Ryan PT-22 Recruit (G-BYPY '001') built in 1941 and seen in 2010.

Left to right: Lavochkin La-9 ('White 28' / ZK-LIX) was imported before the 2003 Legends show by OFMC. Curtis P-40E Kittyhawk ('P-11151 '663' / ZK-RMH / ex NZ3009). OFMC brought it over from New Zealand for the 2003 show. It has now returned to New Zealand. Vought FG-1D Corsair ('92844 8' / NZ5648 / G-BXUL ex N55JP). It was restored to flying condition in 1982 and was with OFMC when it flew at the 2003 show.

Historic Aircraft Collection (HAC) based at Duxford.

Left to right: Hawker Hurricane XIIa (RCAF 5711 painted as 'Z5140' HA-C' / G-HURI) in 2010. Hawker Nimrod II (K3661 / G-BURZ) was built in 1934 and after recovery from a dump in 1972 it passed to the Royal Air Force Museum. Restoration started in 1992 before and the aircraft was acquired by HAC in 1993 and restored to flying condition in November 2006. It the second Nimrod to be restored, see TFC above for the other). Seen here in 2007. Supermarine Spitfire LF.5B (BM597 'JH-C' / G-MKVB) in 2009.

Historic Flying Limited (HFL) based at Duxford.

Left to right: Supermarine Spitfire LF.9E (PL344 'TL-B' / G-IXCC / N644TB). HFL have been responsible for restoring 30% from (1989 to 2002) of all the Supermarine Spitfires flying today. Seen here in 2010. Supermarine Spitfire F.14E (RN201 / G-BSKP) restored and owned by HFL. It first flew again in 2002 appearing at Flying Legends for the first time that year. Seen here in 2006. Supermarine Spitfire LF.16E (TD248 'D' / G-OXVI ) in 2003 and before it was repainted in a camouflage scheme and invasion stripes and coded 'HF-L' in 2004 and 'CR-S' by 2006.

Aircraft Restoration Company (ARC) based at Duxford.

Left to right: Hispano HA1112-M1L Buchón (Spanish license-built Me.109) (Red '1' / G-BWUE ex C.4K-102) is owned by Spitfire Limited and was restored by ARC in 2009 (left) and as ‘Yellow 10’ the paint scheme it wore when it was used with 26 other Buchon’s in the making of the famous 1968 film, ‘Battle of Britain’ in 2010. Flug Werke, Focke-Wulf FW.190A-8/N (980554 / G-FWAB) appeared at Flying Legends in 2007 but was not yet ready to fly. Owned by Spitfire Limited it is cared for by ARC. Supermarine Spitfire HF.9 (TA805 'FX-M' / G-PMNF) Restored by ARC it is owned by Peter Monk and Mike Simpson and photographed above during it's debut display in 2006.

Shuttleworth Trust at Old Warden.

Left to right: Gloster Gladiator Mk.1 ('K7985' really L8032 / G-AMRK) when it displayed in 2009. Hawker Hind (G-AENP / 'K5414 XV') in 2010. Hawker Sea Hurricane Mk.1B (Z7015 '7-L' / G-BKTH) in 2008. Westland Lysander Mk.3A (V9367 'MA-B' / G-AZWT) in 2009.

Real Aeroplane Company (RAC) based at Breighton in Yorkshire.

Left to right: North American P-51D Mustang (44-72773 'QP-M' / G-SUSY) called 'Susy' in 2006. Hawker Hurricane Mk.12 (RCAF 5589 'LK-A' / G-HURR). Sadly as 'BD707' / G-HURR this aircraft crashed killing the pilot on September 15, 2007 during a Battle of Britain display at Shoreham. Hawker Hurricane Mk.4 (KZ321 'JV-N' / G-HURY). Built in 1944 it was restored to flying condition in 2003. It appeared in 2005 painted in a sand-camo scheme. It has since been exported to Canada as C-FTPM.

Left to right: Arrow Active II (G-ABVE c/n 2) was originally built in 1932 and later rebuilt in 1951 and in 1989. It displayed at the 2010 show. Percival E2 Mew Gull (G-AEXF) in 2010.

Association Jean-Baptiste Salis (AJBS) based at La Ferté-Alais in France.

Left to right: Curtiss P-40N Kittyhawk (42-105915 '12' / F-AZKU) 'Little Jeanne' piloted by Christian Amara of the Societe de Developpement et de Promotion de L' Aviation (SDPA). This combat veteran was imported from New Zealand (it was VH-KTI) in February 2008 to France and is based at La Ferté-Alais with AJBS. Seen here in 2011. Junkers Ju 52/3m (F-AZJU 'AZ-JU'). This aircraft was thought to be a Spanish built CASA 352 until during it's restoration the fuselage was mysteriously found to have a Junkers' construction plate (No.24), the wings were however from a Spanish built CASA 352L. It was bought from Aces High in 1990 following its departure from Spain in 1976. Pictured here in 2007. Douglas AD-4NA Skyraider (124143 'RM-205' / F-AZDP) of Amicale Jean-Baptiste Salis (AJBS) from La Ferté-Alais appearing in 2009. In 2011 it was involved in a collision with a Mustang at Flying Legends

Also from France

Left to right: North American P-51D Mustang (F-AZSB / 44-11622 'G4-C') 'Nooky Booky IV' of Societe de Developpement et de Promotion de L' Aviation (SDPA) in 2008. Flug Werk FW.190A-8/N (F-AZZJ) owned by Christophe Jacquard and appearing at Flying Legends for the first time in 2009. Douglas AD-4N Skyraider (127002 '20-LN' / F-AZHK) in a Aeronavale scheme it is owned by Christophe Bruneliere of Vega Team/Skyraider Avignon appearing in 2010 for the first time.

Left to right: Chance Vought F-4U Corsair (124541 '123176 WF-19' / F-AZYS) of Max Alpha Aviation. Vought F-4U-4 Corsair (97264 'B-210' / F-AZVJ) is owned by Christophe Jacquard and based at Dijon-Darois following restoration by Charles Hall, Ramona California from 1985 to 1992. Pictured from 2004. Hawker Fury FB.11 (F-AZXL ‘369’) flown by Frederic Akary resplendent in its Royal Australian Navy scheme appearing in 2010.

Left to right: Supermarine Spitfire PR.19 (PS890 registered F-AZJS) of Corsair Warbird sporting a contra-rotating propeller powered by a Griffon engine taken straight from an Avro Shackleton in 2008. Spitfire XIX (PS890 'UM-E' registered F-AZJS) following its repaint and propeller change for the 2009 show. Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress (44-8846 coded 'DS-M' registered F-AZDX) 'Pink Lady' is operated by the Association Fortresse Toujours Volant en France. From 2008.

From around the UK

Left to right: Supermarine Spitfire LF.9E (MK356 '21-V') of the of the Battle of Britain Memorial flight (BBMF) in 2004. Supermarine Spitfire Mk.1A (AR213 'JZ-E' registered G-AIST) of Sheringham Aviation took to the air in November 2007 for the first time since 2001 following a four year restoration by Personal Plane Services at Booker and on display at the 2008 show. Supermarine Spitfire LF.5C (G-LFVC 'T-B' / JG891') owned by Tom Blair is painted to represent a 249 Squadron aircraft when operating out of Malta. It is ex 79 Squadron RAAF and was found on Kiriwina Island in New Guinea in the 1970s. Initial restoration was in New Zealand with its first post restoration flight in November 2006. It first appeared at Legends in 2007 as shown. Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress (44-85784 '124485 DF-A' registered G-BEDF) 'Sally B' owned by Elly Sallingboe and operated by the B-17 Preservation based at Duxford and photographed in 2006.

Left to right: Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina (PH-PBY / 16-218) on it's debut appearance in 2006.  Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina (G-PBYA) was bought by Catalina Aircraft Ltd. in 2002 and is based at Duxford. It was originally struck off charge from the military in Canada in 1961 after nearly 20 years with the RCAF. It was later converted to a water bomber and was registered as CF-NJF (later C-FNJF). It also operated with the Protection Civile (as F-ZBAY and F-ZBBD) in France, fighting fires during the French summers. By 1974, it had moved on Prince Albert, Saskatchewan with Norcanair for more water bombing duties. By the 1990s the water tanks had been removed and it was carrying passengers. In the UK it was painted in a World War Two colour scheme as seen in 2012 with 'Miss Pick Up' nose art for first time. Fairey Firefly AS.5 (WB271 '204-R') of the Royal Navy Historic Flight as about to take-off for the final time. The 2003 Flying Legends was marred by the tragic crash of the Firefly and the death of pilot Lt Commander Bill Murton and his passenger Neil Rix. The enormous crowd was enthusiastically enjoying the show when after completing its display it appeared to drop a wing a fall vertically into a field the other side of the M11. Supermarine Spitfire I (X4650 'KL-A') owned by Dan and Tom Friedkin first appeared in 2012.

Left to right: Boeing PT-17 Stearman Kaydet from 'Team Guinot' wing walking team in 2007. Boeing PT-17 Stearman Kaydet (SE-BOG) and A-75N1 Stearman (N5057V) demonstrating wing walking sponsored by Breitling in 2012. Bücker Bü131 Jungmann (G-BSAJ) owned by Pete Kynsey.

Left to right: Supermarine Spitfire PR.19 (PS853 'C' / G-RRGN) is owned by Rolls Royce and seen here in 2005. North American P-51D-20 Mustang (44-72216 'HO-M' / G-BIXL) in 2008. It is inscribed 'Miss Helen' is owned by Robert Lamplough of the Aerial Museum (North Weald) where it is based. Supermarine Spitfire HF.VIIIc (MT928 'ZX-M' really MV154 / D-FEUR ex G-BKMI) was with Robs J. Lamplough-Aerial Museum (North Weald) but was with Meier Motors in 2010. North American TF-51D Mustang (44-73871 'TF-871' / D-FTSI) owned by Meier Motors it appeared for first time in 2010.

Left to right: Hawker Hurricane I (R4118 'UP-W') owned by Peter Vacher in 2009. Supermarine Seafire Mk.17 (SX336 coded 'VL-105' / G-KASX) is owned by Kennet Aviation appearing at the 2010 show. Douglas AD-4NA Skyraider (126922 'AK-402' / G-RADR ex G-RAID) in 2010. Delivered to the US Navy in 1948 it was transferred to the French Air Force in 1960. In 1976 it was with the Gabonese Air Force till its retirement in 1986, before returning to France as F-AZED. TFC acquired it in 1993 registering it as G-RAID, in 2003 was sold to Kennet Aviation becoming G-RADR. Supermarine Spitfire F.IIa (P7350 'QJ-K') of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) in 2010.

Bombers on display

Left to right: North American B-25J-20 Mitchell (44-29507 / N320SQ) in 2008. It is inscribed 'Sarinah' of the Dutch based RNAF Historic Flight or 'Duke of Brabant Air Force' which has been flying since 1989 from its home base of Eindhoven. North American B-25J Mitchell (45-8811) of and seen at the 2009 show when owned by Jet Alpine Fighter. It is now with Societe de Developpement et de Promotion de L' Aviation (SDPA). North American B-25D-30NC Mitchell II (KL161 'VO-B' / N25644) in 2009. 'Grumpy' was with TFC until it was sold to Vulcan Warbirds (Flying Heritage Collection) in Seattle in 2004 and was due to depart for the US after the 2009 show as N88972.

From Sweden

Left to right: Douglas A-26B Invader (44-34602 'S' / N167B) 'Sugerland Express' of the Scandinavian Historic Flight based at Oslo Norway since 1988. It was transferred to the civil register in 1958 as N8392H and in 1964 as N167B. North American P-51D-25 Mustang ('44-14450 B6-S' really 44-73877 / N167F) 'Old Crow' of the Scandinavian Historic Flight. Thulin A/Blériot XI built by Thulin in Sweden in 1918. It was flown by owner Mikael Carlsen in 2008.

Left to right: SAAB B17A (17239 / SE-BYH) displaying at the 2005 show it is the only airworthy B17. Formally of the Swedish Air Force it is now with the Flygvapen Museum. It was designed as a dive bomber and is one of just over 383 B17s that were built. It's odd looking undercarriage doubles as air brakes in the dive. Supermarine Spitfire XVIII (SM845 / SE-BIN ex G-BUOS) acquired before the 2009 show from Historic Flying (HFL) by Biltema based at Angelholm in Sweden. Cavalier F-51D Mustang (44-10753 '405' / NL405HC) of Biltema, Sweden in 2009.

From Russia

Left to right: Polikarpov ('White 19' 02089) it is the only one still in existence during it's second year at Duxford in 2005, it was flown by Oleg Federov a champion aerobatic pilot. Polikarpov I-16 Rata 'Rat' (D-EPRN '9' c/n 2421319 ex ZK-JIN) owned by Thomas Julch and seen for first time in 2010.

Left to right: Yakovlev Yak-9UM (HB-RYA / 'Yellow 06') owned by Paul Boschung and flown for first time at Flying Legends in 2012. Yakovlev Yak-3UA (0470107 / D-FJAK 'White 100') This is a new build aircraft built by Yakovlev at Orenburg in Russia from 1991 using the original plans but utilising an all metal construction with an Allison V-1710 engine. The original Yak-3s entered service as a short range interceptor fighter in 1944. 4,848 Yak-3s were built and they proved to be highly successful due to their impressive rate of role, climb and turn which was fully demonstrated at Flying Legends 2012. Yakovlev Yak-11 ('Yellow 11') owned by Rob Davies seen here in 2012.

From Switzerland

Left to right: EFW/Dornier D-3801/ Morane-Saulnier MS.406 C1 (J-143 '1' / HB-RCF c/n 194) of Association Morane Charlie Fox based at Bex, Switzerland. Of the 289 EFW/Dornier D-3801 license built MS.406s manufactured from 1939 to 1941 in Switzerland for the Swiss Air Force only two survive. The other is in the Swiss AF museum at Dubendorf. HB-RCF using parts from several D-3801s from parts collected in the 1970s it was rebuilt from 1994 to June 2000 when it first flew. It is painted in authentic period markings from 1940. Seen here in 2007 (left) and in a modified scheme in 2010.

From North America

Left to right: Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress ('42-97849' really 44-85734 / N390TH) 'Liberty Belle' of the Liberty Foundation it headlined the 2008 show flying specially from the US. Hawker Sea Fury T.20 (WG655 '910' / NX20MD) landing after a solo display by Stephen Grey in 2009. It returned to the UK in May 2009 after an absence of 20 years following an extensive restoration following a crippling accident due to an engine failure near Yeovilton when with the Royal Navy Historic Flight in 1990. P-51D-30 Mustang (44-74391 'MX-I' / N351MX) with P-51D-20 Mustang (44-63864 '412016' / NL98CF) 'Fragile but Agile' both of the Commanche Fighter's 'The Horsemen'.

From Austria

Lockheed P-38L/F-5G Lightning (44-53254 / N25Y). ‘The Flying Bulls’ P-38 Lightning ceased active service from September 1945 and was initially civilian registered to Lilee Products Company in Chicago. J D Reed, an air racing enthusiast, based in Houston later took ownership and achieved 2nd place at the 1947 Miami Air Races and 2nd place at the Sohio-Race in Cleveland in the same year. Marvin 'Lefty' Gardner in 1963 flew the aircraft at the Reno National Championship Air Races with considerable success. Unfortunately in 2001 it was extensively damaged by fire. Eight years later, the P-38 had been restored to its former glory by The Flying Bulls team. Chance Vought F-4U Corsair (96995 'RB-37' / OE-EAS) of the Flying Bulls. This Corsair was one of 12,500 models delivered to the US Navy. It did not see active service in the World War Two, but was transferred to Honduras where it was in active service until 1965. It was then sold to a private owner, who in turn sold the aircraft to Sigi Angerer co-founder of Red Bull. During their debut at Legends in 2011.

Travel in Style VIP or communications aircraft with a military history.

Left to right: Junkers Ju 52/3mg2e ('D-AQUI' D-CDLH / 5489) of Deutsche Lufthansa Berlin-Stiftung in a Lufthansa livery, from Berlin Templehof seen in 2009. Messerschmitt Bf.108 Taifun (D-EBEI) first flew in 1940 and eventually served in North Africa. Shipped to the United States in 1943 it did not return to Germany until 1990. It is owned by Lufthansa Berlin-Stiftung and displayed in 2008. Douglas C-53D Dakota (42-68823 / 11750 / LN-WND) of Foundation Dakota Norway appearing in 2008. Lockheed C-121 Super Constellation (N73544) This Swiss based queen of the skies is operated by the 'Super Constellation Flyers Association (SCFA) and sponsored by Breitling. It was flown over from California in April 2004. Retired to Davis Monthan in 1972, this particular ex USAF machine, was rescued from the scrap man and later taken to Camarillo in California in 1984. Grounded for ten years it was restored to flying condition and flown once again in 1994. The SCFA lease this classic machine from its U.S. owner, Daryoush 'Benny' Younesi and so guarantee that it is kept in tip top condition. Appearing in 2004 this was its first British air show appearance.

Left to right: de Havilland DH.89A Dragon Rapide (G-AGJG). In 2004 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Dragon Rapide six splendid examples were flown in close formation, to everyone's delight. Nobody can remember when such a large formation of Dragon Rapides last took to the skies. The star of the flight was the recently restored DH.89A G-AGJG which had taken to the skies this year, following it's 27 year rebuild. It was immaculate inside and out. de Havilland DH.90A Dragonfly (G-AEDU) In the 2008 show this five-seat luxury aircraft from the 1930s, was used for pleasure flights each morning. It is owned by Sir Torquil Norman and is one of only two original airworthy Dragonflys. de Havilland DH.84 Dragon I (EI-ABI) named 'IOLAR' of Aer Lingus at Flying Legends for the first time in 2011 in commemoration the airline's 75th anniversary. de Havilland DH.84 Dragon I (G-ECAN) of Norman Aeroplane Trust during the 2011 show.

Left to right: Beech YC-43 Traveler (N295BS) of the 'Duke of Brabant Air Force' from Holland displaying in 2009.  Spartan 7W Executive (NC17633) it was one of 16 impressed into the USAAF in 1942. Appearing at the 2008 show it is now privately owned, it was formally based in Lexington, South Carolina, before Nigel Packard bought it and based it at Little Gransden in 2008. The Executive first flew in 1936, see history of type. Lockheed 12A Electra (F-AZLL) owned by French man Bernard Chabbert Flying Legends commentator and flown by his son in 2004. The escapades of its original owner Sydney Cotton a Naval Attache and volunteer spy, was told to the enthralled spectators by Chabbert.

The Volunteers

Flying Legends could not be run without the help of hundreds dedicated people.

Photography: Photographic opportunities are generally excellent. The flight line walk gets you to just a few feet from all the participating warbirds. The crowd line follows the line of the runway and a full range of action shots using a 300mm lens is possible from both ends. The middle section of the crowd line however is a little cluttered with buildings and static exhibits, making action shots a little difficult. Photography during the afternoon of the flying aircraft is a little tricky as you are facing the sun and some of the shots will be back-lit. As the aircraft fly along varied lines and not just straight down the runway getting decent shots is not too hard and the more interesting lit shots will present themselves. There is however a constant gripe from the serious photographer is the parking the modern day visiting aircraft all along the opposite side of the airfields perimeter. This means that most ground shots of 60-year-old aircraft contain a modern day aircraft or 'tin' in the background which spoils the effect completely. Perhaps something can be done to help, but with so many people wanting to fly in for the show I think it will be difficult to find a solution? Careful placement of the wings to hide the long line of visiting general aviation, is one solution to the problem!