Shuttleworth Collection celebrates RAF centenary with sell-out air show

The Sopwith Camel made its air show debut on Sunday at Old Warden. Picture: Nick Blacow (Image: Nick.Blacow@gmail.com)

Aircraft dating from the early days of aviation to the force’s most modern fighter jet soared through the skies over Old Warden in front of a sell-out crowd as the museum started its 2018 show season with a bang.

The flying display began with the Eurofighter Typhoon roaring high overhead and finished with Britain’s oldest airworthy aircraft, a Blackburn Monoplane from 1912.

Planes from both world wars took to the air as well, with an SE5a biplane fighter – the only one of its type with First World War combat history – flying alongside a Sopwith Camel making its air show debut.

All eyes were on the sky as the Boxkite soared through the sunny skies of Bedfordshire. Picture: Nick Blacow. (Image: Archant)

Second World War RAF bombers the Avro Lancaster and Bristol Blenheim flew in formation too.

The air forces most recognisable aircraft, the Supermarine Spitfire also wowed crowds, while attractions on the ground included cockpits, simulators and a wind tunnel.

The next chance to see flying at Old Warden is Saturday, May 19, at the Shuttlworth Collection’s evening air show.

A gliding simulator was amongst the attractions on the ground at Shuttleworth. Picture: Paul Smith. (Image: Archant)

See shuttleworth.org to find out more.