Historic RAF Chipmunk planes spotted flying over Bicester

A group of nine RAF de Havilland Canada DHC‑1 Chipmunks were seen flying over Bicester on Thursday (May 21) as they headed north for a major aviation gathering to celebrate 80th anniversary.

The tandem, two‑seat, single‑engine trainer aircraft, designed shortly after the Second World War, were on their way to Wolverhampton Halfpenny Green Airport in Stourbridge.

They are among 72 Chipmunks due to arrive for what organisers say will be the largest ever rally of the classic type, with aircraft staying until Monday, May 25, to take part in formation training and flypasts.

Student pilot Jasper Dean, who last week took his first solo flight towards his Private Pilot’s Licence, happened to be flying over the airport in a 1961 Cessna 150‑A when he spotted the Chipmunks at the airport.

He said: “It’s so wonderful to see these kinds of aircraft still being flown and enjoyed to this day.”

Reflecting on their history, he added: “When we see black and white pictures and film footage from the 40s, it feels like such a long time ago and another world away, but seeing them right in front of you, flying over you, makes you realise it really wasn’t – It’s great to see that history alive today.”