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Missed your chance to take to the skies in a two-seat Spitfire? Not to worry... later this month, they’re back in Jersey.
And this time, Spitfires.com will also be bringing their operation to Guernsey for the first time ever.
The unique business, which offers its customers the experience of strapping into the rear cockpit of one of the iconic Second World War fighter plane, first came to Jersey in June to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Tens of islanders chose to take up the seat.
Due to popular demand, the rides will now be on offer from Jersey Airport between 27 and 29 August, and from Guernsey Airport on 30 and 31 August.
Pictured: Spitfire rides will once again be on offer from Jersey Airport between 27 and 29 August.
A statement from Spitfires.com, which usually operates out of the Goodwood Aerodrome in West Sussex, said: "This will be the first time ever that Spitfire flight experiences have been offered from Guernsey and due to the popularity of our last detachment to Jersey, we will be returning.
"We are extremely excited about working with the Crown Dependencies to bring our iconic aircraft to these picturesque islands that are steeped in so much history."
Flights will be conducted from The Jersey Aero Club and the Guernsey Aero Club respectively, and cost £3,500 for 30 minutes and £5,000 for 45 minutes.
A hand-picked cadre of pilots command the Spitfire from the front seat, with passengers strapped into the rear in their own cockpit, which is kitted out with a full set of controls. There will even be the opportunity for islanders to take the controls and fly the legendary aircraft for a short time themselves.
The business said that, subject to demand, they plan to base one of their Spitfires in the Channel Islands for a short stint every year.
"As such, we could continue to see Spitfires gracing the skies above the Channel Islands for many years to come," their statement added.
Pictured: Matt Jones with one of the vintage warbirds (Jon Guegan).
Matt Jones, founder and managing director of Spitfires.com said: "We've wanted to offer Spitfire flights in the Channel Islands for many years. With three two-seater Spitfires in our fleet, we are in a position to off more flights in more locations than we ever have before.
"Whilst flying a Spitfire anywhere is a privilege, taking off from Jersey or Guernsey Airports and heading towards the ruggedly beautiful coastlines and turquoise waters, these islands offer promises to be truly mesmerising.
"Even during our shortest of flights, we will be able to circumnavigate the islands in their entirety, which is incredibly special for Jersey and Guernsey residents who come to fly with us."
Set up in 2010, Spitfires.com has become a leading company in the Spitfire world. There are an estimated 60 airworthy Spitfires remaining out of the more than 21,000 built and only seven two-seaters.
You can book your spot or find out more information HERE or by calling Spitfires.com HQ on 01243 531147.
Pictured top: One of the Spitfires taking to the skies above Portelet Bay on its previous visit to the island. (Jon Guegan)
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