Special Presentation Highlighted Aircraft’s History And Restoration

The Commemorative Air Force’s SoCal Wing celebrated the 80th birthday of its Supermarine Spitfire Mk XIV with a celebration at its home base at Camarillo Airport (KCMA) in California. The festivities featured a special presentation that highlighted the rich history of this historic aircraft and the efforts that were put into its restoration.

The event provided guests with a deep exploration of the journey of this aircraft, NH749, as volunteers and maintenance technicians discussed the extensive maintenance and engineering work currently ongoing. The immediate task at hand is focused on upgrading the engine cooling system to get the aircraft ready for its return to flight.

The finale of the celebration was done in true birthday fashion with a piece of cake and an exciting engine run of the aircraft which will soon be airworthy once again.

The unique story of this Spitfire begins with its delivery in February 1945, as NH749 was one of just 957 Mk XIV models built. When it arrived at the No. 33 Maintenance Unit at RAF Lynehan for preparation for combat, it was too late to see any action in Europe during World War II.

As a result of not being needed in Europe, NH749 was reassigned to the Royal Air Force’s Southeast Asia Command and in 1947 was transferred to the Indian Air Force to begin another chapter in its journey.

FMI:  www.cafsocal.com/