The official public launch of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight's (BBMF) 50th anniversary season is to take place exclusively at the Imperial War Museum Duxford on Saturday 5th May.

In association with Breitling and supported by Classic FM, this unique event looks set to provide an action-packed day for all the family. Taking place at historic Duxford, Europe's premier aviation complex and a former Battle of Britain fighter station, the BBMF Day will be the first opportunity to see all the aircraft of the Flight on the ground at close quarters as well as in the air. The legendary Lancaster and two of the iconic Spitfires will be resplendent in their new livery schemes, chosen to commemorate RAF squadrons Nos 100 and 550 as well as famous flying aces, including Gerald 'Stapme' Stapleton, one of the most successful RAF Battle of Britain pilots. Stapme himself will be a guest of honour on the day.

Visitors will be able to meet the people of the Flight - the pilots who fly the aircraft, the aircrew who support them and the ground crew who keep the aircraft maintained and serviced. They will also be able to learn more about the illustrious history of the Flight and the role it plays in today's RAF, as well as be enthralled by nearly two hours of magnificent flying.

The four original fighters of the BBMF will be reunited in a stunning display prior to the oldest airworthy Spitfire displaying with the latest aircraft in the RAF stable, a Tyhoon, in a salute to the past and a celebration of the modern RAF. In addition, the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team will take to the air to perform a spectacular jump from the BBMF Dakota and the Central Band of the RAF will provide rousing musical accompaniment throughout the day.

In a thrilling finale, the Lancaster will take to the air with all seven fighters flying in formation to give visitors a sight not seen for many, many years and will end with a lone Spitfire performing an emotive display as part of the closing ceremony.

"Duxford is delighted and honoured to host this special day as part of its own tribute to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight." said Tracey Woods, Duxford's Marketing and PR Manager. "This will be, without a doubt, an amazing day for people of all ages - a unique opportunity to see the aircraft up close, to meet the people of the Flight past and present and to be thrilled by the sight and sound of these magnificent aircraft displaying, it really is a exceptional and special day which is not to be missed."

Visitors will be able to see the aircraft, including the mighty Lancaster, up close on the ground as part of a flight line walk, chat to the pilots and veterans, get their signatures and witness some magical and awe-inspiring flying. As well as trade stands, the whole of the Museum will be open on the day for visitors to enjoy, with plenty to see including Duxford's dramatic new £25 million AirSpace exhibition. In AirSpace, visitors can experience the fun, interactive displays on the mezzanine gallery to find out about aircraft, how they fly and how they are made, as well as marvel at the rare and treasured aircraft on display, including Duxford's own Lancaster, and discover the personal stories and experiences of the people who designed, built and flew aircraft.

Gates open at 10 am. Duxford is located just south of Cambridge at junction 10 of the M11. Ample free parking is available. Admission for this event is FREE for Children under 16, £19.95 for Adults, £16.50 for Concessions. Discounted tickets and group rates are available in advance. Advance tickets are now on sale for this exclusive Battle of Britain Memorial Flight day.

Imperial War Museum website

BBMF website