Hi Kenneth
As far as I know, any licence that allows you to fly in the UK is acceptable. There is expected to be a reasonable amount of interest from the US – the chance to fly the Spitfire in her ‘natural’ environment…I think the WW2 experience of thousands of US airmen who came to these shores still resonates across the pond…

Hi Ewan

That’s a tad harsh…it is a taster course as described, though solo standard is possible with training. I think there are many people who would derive great satisfaction from getting the Spitfire in the log book and actually flying the aircraft. Once in a lifetime experience? For many, yes. But what an experience…

Instructor only flying below 1000′ for the T6 and Spitfire (taster course). The rest is up to the student…one thing is for sure, anyone who does the course will know what its like to slip those bonds strapped to a merlin and the most iconic aircraft that has ever been built. That memory will live with them and be revived every time they see a Spitfire. Instant Spitfire pilot no, but certainly one of the few who have shared the experience

Cheers

Sorry Mike, crossed.

I’m but a small cog in the operation but want to ensure that the facts are out there. Oxford are very enthusiastic, as is everyone involved. This is not a money making scheme, I believe the owner has enough of that.

It’s a chance to share with anyone who really wants to the experience of flying a Spitfire. I believe the sound of a Merlin is coming to an airfield near you!

What is wrong with setting up a flight training organisation like this in the UK?
A flight training school does not require an AOC and the types used vary widely already. Far better to have a openly clear structure than some bodged cash in hand affair. Operating aircraft on the UK register is difficult enough without readers of this forum taking side swipes at the new school.

Hehe…it’s certainly an openly clear structure, the CAA are fully involved and the names from the warbird fraternity who are taking part…well, they are some of the safest hands in the business. It’s taken a lot of hard work to get this far. All will become clear at the launch, I’m sure. At the request of the insurers, for the ‘taster’ course handling below 1000′ will be limited to the instructor, though individuals may allow hands on follow through on the controls.

It’s hard to believe for some of you I know, but pretty soon you’ll be able to fly a Spitfire, fully approved by the CAA. If you have a pilot’s licence, some spare cash and the inclination to do so.