Fly a Spitfire from Cotswold Airport in Gloucestershire. Enjoy views of the Cotswolds, handle the controls mid-flight, and experience authentic WWII aviation.
Why live this Cotswold Spitfire flight
Flying a Spitfire over the Cotswolds is more than a flight—it’s a step into history. You take off from a former RAF base in Gloucestershire and feel the force of the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. You climb over the countryside, where gentle hills meet stone villages. The aircraft is dual-control, meaning you’ll take the stick in mid-air under the guidance of your pilot. Expect smooth handling, responsive turns, and possibly a gentle Victory Roll. This flight is designed for those who want a real connection to Britain’s aviation past. Whether you’re a fan of history or simply chasing an unforgettable experience, this flight delivers pure emotion and power.
Where, when and how much
Location: Cotswold Airport, formerly RAF Kemble, located in Gloucestershire near Cirencester. Easy access from London, Birmingham, Bristol and Oxford via the M4 and M5.
Dates: Flights are available from May to September, mostly on weekends and selected weekdays. All flights are weather dependent.
Prices:
- 30-minute flight experience (20 minutes airborne): £3,250
- 35-minute experience: £3,750
- 45-minute experience: £4,750
- 55-minute experience: £5,750
Longer options may be available on request. Gift vouchers are offered, with video and souvenir packages included in most bookings.
About the plane
You will fly a genuine WWII-era Supermarine Spitfire, fully restored and maintained for safe operation. This aircraft is equipped with a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, a powerful 27-litre V12 producing more than 1,500 horsepower. It was the engine behind the Spitfire’s key role in the Battle of Britain and many other WWII operations.
With a top speed of over 550 km/h and a unique elliptical wing design, the Spitfire is both fast and incredibly agile. Its shape offers unmatched visibility and a smooth flying experience. The aircraft used at Cotswold is a two-seat, dual-control version, allowing passengers to handle the controls during part of the flight. Inside the cockpit, the layout remains true to the original wartime design. You’ll feel the vibrations, hear the engine’s roar, and experience flying as RAF pilots did 80 years ago. It’s not a simulation—this is the real thing.
What to expect
Your day begins with a warm welcome at Cotswold Airport. You attend a safety briefing and receive a full explanation of the aircraft, the route, and what you’ll do in the air. You’ll be fitted with a flight suit, helmet, and parachute. Then you meet your pilot and head out to the aircraft.
After boarding and performing checks, the Merlin engine roars to life. Taxiing and takeoff are handled by the pilot. Once at cruise altitude, typically around 2,000 feet, the controls are passed to you. Under close supervision, you’ll fly the Spitfire yourself. The control column is light and responsive. The pilot may perform a Victory Roll if you feel comfortable and conditions allow.
Expect views of the Cotswolds countryside, stone villages, rivers and airfields. After landing, you receive a flight certificate, and in many cases, a video recording of your flight. The whole experience takes about two hours from arrival to departure.
Operators
- Fly A Spitfire – Main operator offering Spitfire flights from Cotswold Airport. Professional team, dual-control aircraft, aerobatic options, and full video souvenir packages.
- FlyDays – Booking platform offering Spitfire experience vouchers for Cotswold flights. Flexible date selection and support.
- Into the Blue – Specialist in aviation experiences including Spitfire flights from the Cotswolds. Offers booking support and add-on gift packages.
- TrackDays – Another experience provider selling Spitfire flights at Cotswold Airport with optional upgrades.
A great flight experience
This is one of the most emotional flying experiences in the UK. You control a WWII Spitfire. You hear and feel the Merlin engine. You fly over the beautiful Cotswold region. It’s a real, personal connection to history. Perfect as a gift or a dream come true.
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