More than 18 Supermarine Spitfires took to the skies over Cambridgeshire this weekend to commemorate 90 years since the iconic aircraft’s first flight. The event, held during the Battle of Britain Air Show at the Imperial War Museum Duxford, featured a display of Second World War fighter planes both on the ground and in the air.

The milestone marks nine decades since the prototype Spitfire, designated K5054, made its maiden flight on March 5, 1936. Designed by Reginald “RJ” Mitchell and his team, the Spitfire went on to become one of the most significant aircraft of the Second World War. Mitchell, who died of cancer at age 42 in June 1937, oversaw the initial design and development of the plane before his untimely death.

The Spitfire gained widespread acclaim during the Battle of Britain in 1940, playing a critical role in repelling German air attacks. It was considered the highest-performing Allied aircraft during that period, embodying a symbol of resilience and freedom for Britain in its hour of need.

Over the course of its production, more than 20,000 Spitfires were built, serving in multiple theaters throughout the war and leaving a lasting legacy in aviation history. The aircraft’s distinctive elliptical wings and advanced engineering contributed to its agility and speed, traits that made it a formidable adversary in the skies.

The anniversary celebrations brought together aviation enthusiasts, veterans, and historians who continue to regard the Spitfire as an enduring emblem of courage and innovation. The display at Duxford provided a vivid reminder of the aircraft’s historical significance and the men who built and flew it during one of the most intense periods of aerial combat.