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WWII Spitfire Makes Emergency Landing During VE Day Rehearsal in Kent

The pilot and passenger escaped unharmed after a precautionary landing in a farmer's field, prompting an Air Accident Investigation Branch inquiry.

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Overview

  • The Spitfire, built in 1943 and operated by Fly a Spitfire, made a precautionary landing near West Hythe, Kent, during a VE Day flypast rehearsal on Saturday evening.
  • Both the pilot and a passenger, identified as an American on a flight experience, walked away uninjured from the incident.
  • Emergency services, including two fire engines and paramedics, secured the scene and treated one individual on-site before leaving around 9 p.m.
  • Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft circling before the landing, with some speculating it was part of VE Day preparations.
  • The Air Accident Investigation Branch has launched an inquiry into the cause of the landing, while Fly a Spitfire has confirmed its operations will proceed as scheduled.