As the 90th anniversary of the Supermarine Spitfire reached its final chapter, the last leg of the nationwide commemorative flight brought a truly special moment for the National Spitfire Project.
Our NSP Ace, Rob Day, had the rare opportunity to take to the skies—not as a spectator, but as a passenger aboard the Spitfire itself.
The Final Leg: Exeter to Southampton
We caught up with Rob just before take-off, as preparations were underway for the final flight from Exeter to Southampton.
“I’m lucky to be the back seat passenger for the final leg of the 90th anniversary flight around Britain,” he explained.
This concluding journey was set to be particularly memorable, with part of the route flown in formation alongside a Dakota from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight—a powerful visual tribute to the aircraft and crews of the Second World War.
Despite delays earlier in the week due to poor weather, both aircraft had successfully regrouped in Exeter.
“I saw them fly past my hotel,” Rob said, capturing the anticipation of the moment. “We’re hoping for suitable weather to complete the last leg early tomorrow before the wind picks up.”
A Lifelong Connection to the Spitfire
For Rob, this experience was far more than a one-off opportunity—it was the culmination of a lifelong passion.
“I’m a Spitfire enthusiast. I cannot really explain where that near-lifelong interest originates from, but it’s a really deep connection.”
From a young age, Rob was immersed in aviation. Air shows at locations synonymous with Spitfire history—Biggin Hill, Duxford, and North Weald—sparked a fascination that only grew stronger over time. Books on wartime aircraft, model making, and later photography all became part of that journey.
This passion even influenced his career path, leading him to study aeronautical engineering.
More Than Just an Aircraft
For Rob, the Spitfire is not simply a machine—it’s something deeply personal.
“Being amongst old aeroplanes is something I need a regular ‘fix’ of,” he said. “Just arriving somewhere like Duxford or Goodwood on a day when there’s flying puts a smile on my face—I feel at home. But the presence of a Spitfire is something even more special.”
He describes moments that many aviation enthusiasts will recognise: watching operations at Lee-on-Solent, witnessing mass Spitfire gatherings at commemorations, and even being moved to tears by the aircraft’s beauty on screen.
“And tomorrow, all being well, I get to fly in one…”
A Moment to Remember
That moment became reality on the final leg of the Spitfire 90 tour—a fitting conclusion to a nationwide celebration of one of Britain’s most iconic aircraft.
Reflecting afterwards, Rob described the experience as:
“A truly wonderful, incredible experience from beginning to end; so much more than ‘just’ a flight in a Spitfire. Something I will never forget.”
Why This Matters
Stories like Rob’s capture exactly why the National Spitfire Project exists.
The Spitfire is more than an aircraft—it is a symbol of innovation, resilience, and human connection. Moments like this bring that legacy to life, inspiring new generations while honouring those who came before.
As the final leg touched down in Southampton, it marked not an end, but a continuation of that story—one we are proud to preserve and share.