Reuniting a pair of Spitfire IXs that flew and fought together on the same wartime RAF squadron — and went on to have remarkably interconnected lives in peacetime, too
Together they represent something of a warbird Holy Grail. Two combat veteran Supermarine Spitfire IXs, just 20 airframes apart on the same production line, still flying today. Both have aerial victories to their credit, and large elements of shared operational history. In more recent times, they have been connected to some of the outstanding names in the world of historic aircraft preservation. And here they are, airborne as a pair once more.
Together again: the Old Flying Machine Company’s Spitfire IX MH434 with the Air Leasing-operated MH415, both in their original No 222 Squadron markings.
JOHN DIBBS
The legend of MH434, flagship of the Old Flying Machine Company, needs little introduction. Its exploits at war, its film roles, its association with the late OFMC founders Ray and Mark Hanna — these, and more, contribute to its special status. But MH415 has much in common.
