NPR

'The Most Beautiful Machine To Fly': Iconic Spitfire Takes Flight Once Again

The Silver Spitfire is set to become the first of its type to fly around the world. Pilot Steve Brooks says the Spitfire is the "most iconic" machine ever made.
This undated photo shows one of the famed British RAF Supermarine Spitfire planes assembled in Casablanca during World War II, in flight. (AP Photo)

The Spitfire, an iconic British single-seat fighter aircraft used by the Royal Air Force in World War II, is taking to the skies once again, marking 75 years since the D-Day invasions. But this time, the legendary warplane isn’t outfitted with guns, camouflage and squadron markings.

The Spitfire Mk IX, known simply as the “Silver Spitfire,” is set to become the first of its type to fly around the world.

Starting August 5, aviators Steve Brooks and Matt Jones will be taking the 76-year-old Spitfire to new heights, in a 4-month expedition. Brooks and Jones plan to make more than

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
A Car-free Town In The Amazon Serves Lessons For Pedaling To Net Zero Emissions
Afuá, a remote town in the Brazilian Amazon, banned motor vehicles over 20 years ago. Writer Mac Margolis and photographer Stefan Kolumban paid the town a visit to see what life is like.
NPR17 min readAmerican Government
What Did Trump Say? Explaining The Former President's Favorite Talking Points
Former President Donald Trump continues to ratchet up his rhetoric on the campaign trail, but if someone doesn't follow Trump all the time, decoding his meaning can get confusing. We're here to help.
NPR2 min read
Hiking The Azores Into Lush Mountains And Stormy North Atlantic Weather
NPR correspondent Brian Mann went trekking on Sao Miguel, one of the most remote islands in the North Atlantic. He found volcanic mountains, birdsong, solitude and lots of rain.

Related Books & Audiobooks