About the Polish Heritage Flight

On 11th November 2019 The Polish Heritage Flight was formed. 

As part of the Historic Aircraft Collection based at the Imperial War Museum Duxford, the project aims to bring to life the stories of the people that came to the 'Island of last hope' to take up the fight from Britain and throughout the Second World War.

The Flight has been formed by Hawker Hurricane G-HURI, star of the 2018 303 Squadron movie and proudly wears these markings today.

303 was a squadron that symbolised togetherness and international unity with the top scoring pilot from Czechoslovakia, Sgt Josef Frantisek, and Canadian John A Kent as Flight Commander as well as obtaining the 3rd highest number of kills in the Squadron during the Battle of Britain.

Supermarine Spitfire BM597 saw wartime service with both 315 & 317 Polish Squadrons operating from RAF Woodvale. Its role to protect the industrial North-West of England and the crucial Convoys making their way through the Western Approaches.

We believe BM597 is the only airworthy Spitfire to still carry its wartime Polish markings. 

After the war having spent time as a Gate Guardian at various Royal Air Force stations, ‘597 was used for the master moulds for replica Spitfires for the 1969 Battle of Britain movie. 

We try to tell the story of all aspects of the Polish Story. Whilst our aeroplanes undoubtedly draw attention to Fighter Command, we fly in tribute to Bomber Command, Costal Command and all those that served in all Services and Conflicts.

Our aim is to:

Remember. Inspire. Unity

 We are a non-profit volunteer organisation and appreciate any contact and contributions from people who can help to tell our story. 

The aeroplanes operate under huge financial commitments and we aim to keep them flying for as long as possible. 

Whilst we hope very much the Flight can continue for as long as possible our commercial objectives.  are:

Short Term- Obtaining bookings, both Flying & Static Events.

Medium Term - Obtain Sponsorship for items such as servicing, insurance and events.

Long Term - Securing the long term future for both aeroplanes and the Polish Heritage Flight as a permanent living memorial to those who fought - For Our Freedom & Yours...

On the 2nd December 2022 the Polish Heritage Flight received the Silver Medal of the Polish Army

Contact: polishheritageflight@gmail.com 

Remember. Inspire. Unity