Spitfire and Lancaster confirmed for Airshow

TWO Spitfires and a Lancaster will be taking to the skies above Swansea this summer, 65 years on from the Battle of Britain.

It’s now been confirmed that the aircraft, from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, will feature in the Wales National Airshow being held in the city on Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12.

The Battle of Britain is the name given to the Second World War air campaign waged by the Luftwaffe against the UK during the summer and autumn of 1940. It was the first major campaign to be fought entirely by air forces.

Swansea Council is behind the Wales National Airshow.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Cabinet Member for Enterprise, Development and Regeneration, said: “The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is a hugely popular feature of air shows across the country and beyond. Watching these iconic aircraft from yesteryear take to the skies above Swansea Bay will be a treat for the many thousands of visitors expected to watch the action unfold from the promenade.

“The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will combine with modern aircraft, aerial acrobatics and ground-based entertainment to generate what’s sure to be a weekend to remember.

“The Wales National Airshow is one of the highlights of an Enjoy Swansea summer events programme that’s been put together to ensure there’s someone for everyone.”

Also taking part in July’s Airshow are the Red Arrows and a Eurofighter Typhoon. The Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force’s aerobatic team, have flown over 4,660 displays in 56 countries. Royal Air Force Typhoons, which have a wing span of 11 metres, flew their first ever combat mission while patrolling the no-fly zone in Libya in 2011.

This is the fourth time the Wales National Airshow will have been held in Swansea. Visit www.walesnationalairshow.com to register for event updates and download a free Airshow-themed paper aeroplane.