
by Sqn Ldr Sugden, for its third flight after its Major maintenance. (Photo: Max Broughton)
Whilst the other BBMF historic aircraft are now in winter maintenance, Spitfire PR Mk XIX PM631 continues to fly. The Griffon engine Spitfire received clearance to fly at the end of September and took to the skies for the first time in three years on Thursday 3rd October in the hands of OC BBMF, Squadron Leader Mark ‘Suggs’ Sugden, for a partial Post ‘Major’ Maintenance Air Test. The air test was completed on 17th October and Suggs said that the Spitfire is flying beautifully.
Flight Lieutenant Andy Preece flew PM631 on 22nd October and he and Suggs will continue to fly the Spitfire occasionally, for ‘shakedown’ flying and for their own currency, which has been limited on Spitfires this year with the pause in flying.

When BBMF Spitfire Mk Vb AB910 returns from its ‘Major’ servicing at Biggin Hill, probably in the new year, PM631 will be flown to Biggin Hill for the Spitfire Company to carry out a postponed minor repair to the so-called ‘top hat’ section on the rear of its Frame 5. PM631 should be available again for the 2025 display season.