The Supermarine Spitfire Mk XIV, presented by W Air Collection, will be among the historic aircraft on display at the BAFDAYS, where it will be featured in a flying demonstration throughout the weekend. An iconic aircraft of the Second World War, it represents one of the most powerful and refined evolutions of the Spitfire family. Its sleek silhouette, Griffon engine, and operational history make it an exceptional aircraft, still capable of evoking strong emotions today.

A Rare Aircraft with a Rich Operational History.

Built in November 1944, Spitfire RM927 is a Spitfire FR Mk XIVe, a version designed for fighter and armed reconnaissance missions at the end of the conflict. After entering service with the Royal Air Force, the aircraft was assigned from 1944 to No. 430 (CA) Squadron, a Canadian unit within the RAF. It carried out tactical reconnaissance missions over Europe following the Normandy landings and continued these operations until the end of the war. After the conflict, RM927 was transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force, before being sold in November 1947 to the Belgian Air Force, where it received the serial SG 25.

A Spitfire Closely Linked to Florennes Air Base.

This Spitfire Mk XIV is particularly well known at Florennes Air Base.
Between 1947 and 1954, RM927 served with the Belgian Air Force and was based at Florennes, where it took part in post war activities, including operational use and pilot training. Under Belgian roundels, the aircraft successively carried the markings SG 25, followed by the codes 3R D and IQ W, further strengthening the historic link between this legendary aircraft and Florennes. Following an accident in 1952, the aircraft was withdrawn from service and subsequently spent several decades in storage and passed through multiple ownership changes.

An Exemplary Restoration and Return to Flight !

Acquired by W Air Collection in 2020, Spitfire RM927 underwent a complete restoration in the United Kingdom, at Richard Grace’s workshops in Sywell. During this process, the aircraft was returned to flying condition and received the British registration G SXIV. In the summer of 2022, the aircraft moved to France, where it now flies under the registration F AYXX. Based at La Ferté Alais, it is today one of the very few Spitfire Mk XIVs still operational in Europe.

The Spitfire Mk XIV: Power and Evolution.

The Mk XIV marked a major break from earlier Spitfire variants with the introduction of the Rolls Royce Griffon engine, significantly more powerful than the Merlin. This version stands out for its substantially higher speed, improved low and medium altitude performance, rapid climb rate, and a more assertive silhouette, recognizable by its five bladed propeller and enlarged tail surfaces. Designed to counter the latest enemy fighters, the Spitfire Mk XIV ranks among the most capable aircraft deployed on the European in 1945.

General Characteristics of the Spitfire Mk XIV:

• Type : Single seat fighter
• Version : FR Mk XIVe
• Engines : Rolls‑Royce Griffon IIB
• Power output : approx. 2,000 hp
• Length : 9,95 m
• Wingspan : 11,23 m
• Maximum speed : approx. 710 km/h
• Range: : up to 980 km
• Original armament : 4 × 20 mm Hispano cannons
• Roles : Fighter, fighter bomber, reconnaissance

A Symbol of Aviation Heritage.

Today, Spitfire RM927 is far more than a historic aircraft. Its service under British, Canadian, and Belgian colours, its recent return to flight, and its meticulous maintenance make it a true living piece of aviation heritage. It is also the oldest aircraft of the Belgian Air Force still in flying condition, giving its presence a particularly strong symbolic significance. It is therefore with great pleasure that this exceptional aircraft—and its proud owner, Mr. Brice Ohayon—will be seen again.

A Legendary Aircraft to Admire in Flight at the BAFDAYS !

During the BAFDAYS weekend, the public will be able to enjoy a flying demonstration of this exceptional Spitfire Mk XIV, experience the unique sound of the Griffon engine, relive the history of an aircraft closely linked to Florennes and the Belgian Air Force, and admire one of the most iconic fighters of the Second World War in action. The presence of the W Air Collection Spitfire Mk XIV in the flying display will undoubtedly be a highlight of the event and a deeply emotional moment for all historic aviation enthusiasts.

Through this article dedicated to the Spitfire Mk XIV, it is also an opportunity to highlight the Spitfire Project, an initiative devoted to the preservation, transmission, and promotion of this legendary aircraft and its strong historical ties to Florennes and the Belgian Air Force. The presence of this exceptional aircraft in a flying display perfectly reflects the spirit of the BAFDAYS, a unique event where heritage, passion, and emotion come together.

👉 To learn more about the Spitfire Project and discover the full BAFDAYS programme, visit the official event page !

Photo credits: B. Denet – W Air Collection – 2W IPR