Club 2026 Autumn Journal published
As the sun sets on this year’s display season, the RAF Memorial Flight Official Club 2026 Autumn Journal magazine is being sent out free to all Club members, exclusively for you and not on sale to the public. This 76-page 2026 Autumn Journal is packed with fabulous images and features which will be of great interest to all, covering some of the BBMF activities this year, offering behind the scenes insights and providing historical perspectives. The contents list gives you a taster of what’s in store for you when your Autumn Journal arrives through your letterbox:
Introduction. A personal introduction from OC BBMF, Squadron Leader Paul ‘Ernie’ Wise.
‘Lest we forget’. The sad story of RAF Second Lieutenant Alfred Neal Hyde who was killed in action seven weeks before the end of the First World War.
Lancaster PA474 colour schemes with BBMF. With Lancaster PA474 due to return to the skies in new markings in 2027, we take the opportunity to recap the liveries that the famous bomber has worn in service with the BBMF.
BBMF Chipmunk contributes to frontline weapon development. The remarkable and previously untold story of how BBMF Chipmunk WG486 this year helped to develop a new weapon for the RAF’s Eurofighter Typhoon.
Design House. The little-known but vital role of Hursley Park Estate in the dispersal of Supermarine’s backroom staff, to ensure the continued production of the Spitfire during the Second World War.
“An oily left boot…” The Boulton Paul Defiant.
Spitfire 90 “Probably the best 24 hours of my life!” Club member ‘Al’ Dempsey shares his experiences of a flight in the pale-blue two-seat Spitfire ‘K5054’ during its amazing, fund-raising circumnavigation of Britain to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Spitfire’s maiden flight.
Dakotas over Burma. With the BBMF Dakota now flying in South East Asia markings, Clive Rowley presents stories of some of the unsung and heroic actions of the Dakota transport crews in the war against Japan in Burma.
The luck of the Irish? With BBMF Hurricane PZ865 in 247 Squadron night fighter colours, Paul Eden tells the story of Wing Commander Ken ‘Mac’ MacKenzie who in a remarkable wartime career also flew with 247 Squadron and claimed two night kills.
‘Shagbats’ and Spitfires. The story of the RAF’s Air Sea Rescue operations in the Second World War.
Upgunning the Spitfire. The troublesome introduction of cannon to the Spitfire.
‘Keeping ’em flying’ – BACK TO THE FUTURE. ‘Retro’ by name but Retro Track & Air (UK) Ltd is helping to future proof the BBMF and the continuing availability and airworthiness of its historic aircraft.
What’s in a picture? A photo of Pilot Officer Jerry Smith RCAF in the cockpit of a Spitfire has a remarkable story to tell.
We hope you enjoy the Autumn Journal magazine and its content. Do let us have your feedback.
If you are not a Club member and would like to receive this Autumn Journal and all of the Club’s future twice-yearly publications, plus the full monthly e-newsletters with exclusive stories, you can join the Club here.
