EDM: 90th anniversary of the Spitfire

90th anniversary of the Spitfire

Tabled by Liz Jarvis (Liberal Democrat) 58 signatures

The motion

That this House commemorates the 90th anniversary of the maiden flight of the Spitfire, which first took to the skies from Eastleigh Airfield on 5 March 1936; notes that the K5054, a Supermarine Type 300, the prototype of the Spitfire, piloted on that day by Captain Joseph Mutt Summers, marked a pivotal moment in British aviation history; recognises that the Spitfire was critical in defeating Luftwaffe air attacks during the Battle of Britain in 1940 and denying the Luftwaffe air superiority, marking a turning point in the Second World War; further recognises the outstanding contribution of R.J. Mitchell, who led the team that designed the Spitfire; acknowledges the Spitfire’s remarkable engineering and cutting-edge technology, including its elliptical wings and exceptional manoeuvrability and speed; highlights the Spitfire’s adaptability and global service across major campaigns in Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Asia-Pacific; also recognises the tremendous courage, skill and sacrifice of the pilots, engineers, and workers who designed, built, maintained and flew the aircraft; commends the enduring legacy of the Spitfire as an iconic symbol of British innovation, resilience and determination; and celebrates the Spitfire’s role as a lasting source of pride for Eastleigh, reflecting the town’s unique place in the history of British aviation.

Signatories (58)