A historic Spitfire aircraft made an emergency landing in a farmer’s field while reportedly practicing a flypast for a VE Day ceremony in West Hythe, Kent.
The dramatic incident sent fire crews and paramedics rushing to the scene as the iconic warplane fell from the sky, crashing into the crops.
Emergency Response and Immediate Reactions
Images from the scene show the aircraft lying in a field, surrounded by emergency service personnel and onlookers.
Fortunately, the pilot and passenger were able to safely exit the plane, and no injuries were reported.
Witnesses at the scene were quick to ensure the safety of those involved, with one anonymous bystander recalling the moment the aircraft went down.
“We were on our way home from shopping and saw another Spitfire circling,” the witness explained to KentOnline.
“We thought it was unusual and assumed they were practicing for the VE Day ceremony. But moments later, we came across the crashed plane.”
The concerned witness also mentioned contacting the farmer and opening the gate to make it easier for emergency teams to access the site.
Fire Service and Paramedic Assistance
A spokesperson for the fire service confirmed the emergency landing, stating, “We were called to an aircraft that had made an emergency landing.”
Two fire engines were dispatched to the location, where crews worked to secure the area.
One person was handed over to paramedics from SECAmb for further assessment.
By 9 PM, the emergency teams had cleared the scene.
A Historic Aircraft’s Close Call
The Spitfire involved in the incident belonged to Fly a Spitfire, a flight experience company based at Biggin Hill.
A representative from the company shared an update, confirming that the pilot had made a precautionary landing at a non-airfield location and assured the public that both the pilot and passenger were unharmed. They also mentioned, “At this stage, we have no further information.”
The aircraft itself has an impressive history.
Built in 1943, it first entered service with 441 Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Force and was later assigned to the RAF.
It flew its first operational sortie on September 25, 1944, during World War II.
The Aftermath and What Comes Next
While the incident may have startled many, it ended on a positive note with no serious injuries.
As authorities continue to gather more details, it remains to be seen whether the Spitfire will be cleared for future flights, or if this will mark the end of its time in the skies.