20 April 2024
Saxon Air, Norfolk, UK – April 20, 2024 – Saxon Air’s highly anticipated Aviation Archive event, held on April 20th at the hanger, celebrated the rich wartime history of Norfolk and the launch of Spitfire pleasure flights for the upcoming summer season. The event captivated a large local audience, blending historical tribute with contemporary aviation showcases.
Josh, Flight Support Manager at Saxon Air, expressed his enthusiasm, “To have the historic Spitfire operating pleasure flights throughout the summer season is a huge opportunity for us here at Saxon Air. We are hugely grateful to have this opportunity in partnership with Fly A Spitfire. The Aviation Archive event to launch the flights was a huge success, giving the general public a chance to get up close and personal with the iconic aircraft and also being able to tie in the local aviation community to showcase their businesses. Roll on the 20th May and the commencement of the Spitfire flights.”
The event was not only a tribute to the past but also a celebration of community and the continuation of aviation innovation. Saxon Air, known for its forward-thinking approaches like electric flight, emphasised its commitment to honouring the past. Attendees enjoyed presentations from award-winning historian Neil Storey and Nigel Cushion, whose personal stories linked directly to the legendary Spitfire’s legacy.
Local military vehicle and living history groups, including the Norfolk Military Vehicle Group and Discover D-Day, The Norfolk Military Vanguard Group among others, provided vintage displays, enriching attendees’ understanding of Norfolk’s role during the war. The Norwich Aviation Museum, RAF Coltishall Heritage Centre and other community exhibitors shared artifacts and stories, deepening the connection between past and present.
The event also served an important charitable purpose, raising significant funds and awareness for the veteran charity SSAFA and the British Legion, demonstrating the community’s ongoing support for its heroes. Saxon Air raised a total fund of a £750 for SSAFA Norfolk on this day through the ticket sales and kind donations.
As Saxon Air prepares for the inaugural Spitfire flight on May 20th, the success of the Aviation Archive event has set a high standard, promising an exciting future for both aviation enthusiasts and the broader Norfolk community. This summer, residents and visitors alike have the unique opportunity to soar through the skies in a historic Spitfire, experiencing a piece of history firsthand.
For more information on booking your Spitfire flight experience, please visit Fly a Spitfire Spitfire Flights from Biggin Hill, Cotswold, Blackbushe and Norwich