Fly a Spitfire at Newcastle upon Tyne Airport
Race off towards the skies over Newcastle Airport and relive history in a legendary Supermarine Spitfire, the most iconic aircraft ever built.
What you’ll experience on your Spitfire flight
Newcastle offers a truly unique setting for your Spitfire flight, taking off from a historic World War II airfield with a rich aviation legacy. This location is one of the few in the UK where a Spitfire secured a nighttime aerial victory, adding a rare and fascinating chapter to its wartime history.
Just 5 miles from Newcastle city centre, the airfield is easily accessible, making it an ideal choice for visitors from across the North East and beyond. Once airborne, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the North East coastline, rolling countryside and iconic regional landmarks. Your experience even takes place at a convenient private jet terminal, ensuring a premium level of comfort and service from start to finish.
With its blend of historical significance, scenic beauty and first-class facilities, Newcastle is the perfect location for an unforgettable Spitfire adventure.
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The history and heritage of Newcastle Upon Tyne
Newcastle Airport was opened as Woolsington Aerodrome on 26th July 1935 by the Secretary of State for Air, Sir Phillip Cunliffe-Lister. Initially, it was used for civil aircraft and served as home to a flying club.
However, the airfield was requisitioned by the RAF’s No. 43 Elementary and Reserve Flying Training School in June 1939, becoming known as RAF Woolsington. As a centre for flying training, it was operated by the Newcastle Flying Club with a mix of de Havilland Tiger Moths, Miles Magisters and Hawker Hinds.
The airfield served as a satellite of both RAF Acklington and RAF Ouston. Although it wasn’t a main operational station, in 1940 a Spitfire of No. 72 Squadron flew out of Woolsington and actually shot down a Junkers Ju 88 at night. This was one of the few nighttime kills attributed to a Spitfire.
RAF Woolsington was also home to Air Sea Rescue Spitfires, as well as the Supermarine Walrus flying boat!
In 1941, Durham University Air Squadron (DUAS) was formed at RAF Woolsington, initially flying Tiger Moth aircraft. The unit stayed teaching elementary flying until 1949. After the war, civil flying resumed and the airport later became known as Newcastle International Airport.
In 1967, the construction of a new runway and terminal was completed along with an apron and a new air traffic control tower. These new additions were officially opened by Prime Minister Harold Wilson on 17 February 1967.
Today, Spitfires.com operates Spitfire flights from the Samson Private Jet FBO on the south side of the airfield.
Other things to do near Newcastle upon Tyne
Industrial heritage, wartime history and beautiful waterside strolls make Newcastle one of England’s most characterful regions – and the perfect destination for a whirlwind holiday.
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