How many Spitfires are at Duxford?

Spitfire Collection at Imperial War Museum Duxford

Imperial War Museum Duxford typically displays 8-12 Spitfire aircraft at any given time, including both static museum exhibits and airworthy examples based at the airfield.

Static Display Spitfires

• Museum Collection: 6-8 Spitfires in permanent display
• Various Marks: Different variants representing the aircraft's evolution
• Condition: Restored to museum standard
• Locations: Distributed across multiple hangars

Notable Spitfire Variants

• Spitfire Mk I: Early Battle of Britain variant
• Spitfire Mk V: Most produced variant
• Spitfire Mk IX: High-altitude fighter
• Spitfire PR.XIX: Photo-reconnaissance version
• Spitfire Mk XIV: Late-war variant with Griffon engine
• Seafire: Naval variant of the Spitfire

Airworthy Spitfires

• Flying Examples: 3-5 airworthy Spitfires based at Duxford
• Operators: Aircraft Restoration Company and private owners
• Availability: Numbers vary based on maintenance schedules
• Air Shows: Regular participants in flying displays

Special Configurations

• Cut-away Aircraft: One Spitfire shows internal structure
• Cockpit Access: Some aircraft allow visitor access
• Restoration Projects: Ongoing restoration work visible to visitors
• Interactive Displays: Detailed information about each variant

Historical Significance

• Duxford Heritage: Many Spitfires have connection to the airfield
• Battle of Britain: Several aircraft represent the 1940 campaign
• Squadron Service: Aircraft from various RAF squadrons
• Combat Veterans: Some aircraft saw active service

Display Locations

• AirSpace Hangar: 2-3 Spitfires in main exhibition
• Battle of Britain Exhibition: 2-3 aircraft in themed display
• Historic Hangars: Period settings with appropriate variants
• Outdoor Display: Weather-dependent seasonal displays
• Restoration Area: Work-in-progress aircraft occasionally visible

Seasonal Variations

• Air Show Periods: Additional visiting Spitfires during events
• Flying Season: More airworthy examples active March-October
• Maintenance Periods: Some aircraft unavailable during servicing
• Special Events: Extra Spitfires for commemorative occasions

Visitor Experience

• Close Access: Walk around static aircraft
• Educational Value: Learn about different variants and their roles
• Photography: Excellent opportunities for aircraft photography
• Flying Displays: See Spitfires in action during air shows

Supporting Aircraft

• Hurricane: Spitfire's Battle of Britain partner
• Mustang: American fighter that served alongside Spitfires
• Tempest: Later RAF fighter development
• Other Fighters: Context for Spitfire's operational environment

Technical Insights

• Engine Evolution: From Merlin to Griffon powerplants
• Wing Designs: Different wing configurations visible
• Armament Variations: Different gun and cannon configurations
• Performance Data: Detailed specifications for each variant

Special Programs

• Cockpit Experiences: Sit in Spitfire cockpit (limited availability)
• Technical Tours: Behind-the-scenes access
• Flight Experiences: Fly in two-seat Spitfire variants
• Educational Workshops: Learn about Spitfire development and service

Duxford's Spitfire collection represents one of the most comprehensive displays of these iconic fighters, offering visitors insight into the aircraft that helped win the Battle of Britain and served throughout WWII.