Fly a Spitfire from Norwich Airport and discover Norfolk from the air in a legendary WWII fighter plane. Experience the roar of the Merlin engine and relive history.
Why live this Norwich Airport Spitfire flight
Flying a Spitfire from Norwich Airport is a rare and emotional experience. You take off from the former RAF Horsham St Faith airfield, where real Spitfires flew during the Second World War. You’re seated in the rear cockpit of an authentic two-seat Mark IX Spitfire, with a former RAF or warbird pilot at the controls. The flight path takes you over Norfolk’s coastline, Holkham Hall, and Egmere Solar Station. You can even suggest route options. The day includes a full briefing, video recording of your flight, and souvenir materials. Up to four guests can accompany you and watch from a private lounge. From the moment you arrive to the moment you land, every detail is designed to make you feel like a fighter pilot. If you’ve ever dreamt of hearing the Merlin roar while flying in one of Britain’s most iconic aircraft, this is your chance.
Where, when and how much
This Spitfire flight takes place at Norwich Airport, on the historic RAF Horsham St Faith site, near the SaxonAir private aviation terminal. The flying season usually runs from April to October, weather permitting. You should arrive at least 30 minutes before your flight. The full experience lasts around two hours, including briefing, flight, and debrief. Prices start at £3,375 for the 30-minute Norfolk Explorer flight. Other options include 35, 45, 55, 65, and 75-minute flights, with routes covering Norfolk castles, Nelson’s Monument, and former WWII airfields. The longest flight, the Norfolk Patrol, costs £7,875. Each flight includes a full pilot briefing, digital video, a flight certificate, pilot notes, and a souvenir pack. Booking is essential due to high demand and limited availability.
About the plane
You fly in a genuine Supermarine Spitfire Mark IX, one of the most iconic British fighter aircraft ever built. This particular model has been converted into a two-seat trainer version, maintaining the original engine, cockpit layout, and performance. The Spitfire was designed by R.J. Mitchell and entered RAF service in 1938. It became a symbol of victory during the Battle of Britain and remained in frontline service throughout World War II. The Mark IX variant was introduced in 1942 to counter the German Fw 190. It features the Rolls-Royce Merlin 61 engine, offering higher performance at altitude. The aircraft you fly in retains its wartime handling and is fully restored to flying condition. The cockpit is compact and filled with original dials and switches. You’ll feel every vibration of the engine, hear the deep growl of the Merlin, and sense the precision of the aircraft as it rolls and turns. With dual controls, your pilot may allow you to take the stick briefly. This is not a replica or a simulator. It’s the real thing, still flying strong 80 years later.
What to expect
Your experience begins at the SaxonAir facility at Norwich Airport. You’ll be welcomed by the team and guided through a short video briefing covering safety and flight procedures. After signing the fitness declaration and waiver, you’ll meet your pilot and get fitted with flight gear. You’ll then board the Spitfire, taxi out, and run through pre-flight checks before takeoff. The flight lasts between 30 and 75 minutes depending on the option you selected. You’ll fly over Norfolk’s beautiful countryside and coastline, with views of landmarks such as Holkham Hall or the Norfolk Broads. You’ll feel the power of the Merlin engine and hear the unmistakable sound of the Spitfire in flight. If the conditions and your comfort allow, your pilot may demonstrate gentle manoeuvres such as a roll. After landing, you’ll debrief with your pilot and receive a digital video of the flight, a signed certificate, a flight patch, and aircraft details. Friends or family can watch from a private lounge and take photos of your takeoff and landing.
Operators
This flight is operated exclusively by Fly A Spitfire, part of the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar team. They manage the aircraft, pilots, maintenance, and booking process. All flights from Norwich Airport are conducted under strict Civil Aviation Authority regulation, with highly experienced pilots flying the aircraft. Flights can be booked directly on their website.
A great flight experience
Flying a Spitfire from Norwich is an unforgettable moment. You get to relive the feeling of World War II aviation in an aircraft that helped shape history. From the briefing to the roar of the engine, every second is packed with emotion and adrenaline. This is more than a scenic flight – it’s a personal journey into British heritage.
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