The Freddie March Spirit of Aviation presented by Bonhams|Cars is set to make a grand return to the Goodwood Revival this year, once again captivating enthusiasts with a stunning showcase of pre-1966 aircraft. This iconic event, a cornerstone of the Goodwood Revival, not only celebrates the golden age of aviation but also honors the legacy of Freddie March, the 9th Duke of Richmond, a man whose passion for engineering, racing, and aviation left an indelible mark on history.
A Salute to Aviation Legends
The 2024 Freddie March Spirit of Aviation promises to be a spectacular affair, featuring an impressive collection of aircraft that played pivotal roles in some of history’s most significant moments. Central to this year’s display will be a rare assembly of Supermarine Spitfires, the iconic aircraft that were instrumental during World War II, particularly in the D-Day landings. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness these marvels of engineering up close, including the 1943 IXb and 1944 LF Mk.IXe models, along with the formidable MK 9 and MK IX variants.
Adding to the historical richness of the event, the Douglas C-47, known for its role in carrying paratroopers into enemy territory, will also be on display. Other legendary aircraft, such as the Grumman Wildcat FM2, Hawker Hurricane, Swordfish Mk1, and the Westland Lysander 111A, will further enrich this year’s competition, making it one of the most fiercely contested showcases to date.
Distinguished Panel of Judges
The task of selecting the ‘Best in Show’ from this exceptional lineup falls to a distinguished panel of judges, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise from the aviation world. Among them is Katherine Moloney, a pioneering figure in aviation and the founder of Elevate(her), a platform dedicated to inspiring women in the industry. With her deep-rooted passion for aviation, Katherine’s insights will be invaluable in this year’s competition.
Joining her is Mack Rutherford, who, at just 16 years old, became the youngest person to fly solo around the world, earning a Guinness World Record. His extraordinary journey has inspired countless young aviators, and his presence on the judging panel adds a touch of youthful exuberance to the event.
Veteran judge Squadron Leader Alan Jones returns to lend his expertise once again. As the Director of the Solent Sky Museum, Alan has dedicated his life to preserving the rich history of aviation in the Hampshire and Solent regions, areas renowned for their contributions to the development of aircraft like the Supermarine Spitfire.
The panel is further strengthened by the inclusion of Paul Beaver, an aviation historian and broadcaster with a particular focus on aircraft from the 1930s and 1940s. Paul’s deep understanding of vintage aircraft, coupled with his hands-on experience as the founder of Monty’s Messenger Ltd, makes him a crucial member of the judging team.
Completing the panel is Steve Parrish, former British Motorcycle Champion and an aviation enthusiast with a keen interest in light aircraft. Steve’s unique perspective, honed through years of experience both as a pilot and a commentator for the Red Bull Air Race series, will undoubtedly contribute to the panel’s final decision.
A Weekend of Aerial Splendor
The Goodwood Revival, scheduled for Friday, September 6th, through Sunday, September 8th, will kick off each morning with a breathtaking flypast featuring a lineup of iconic aeroplanes, including a Spitfire, P-47 Thunderbolt, and P-51 Mustang. For those who are part of the Goodwood Road Racing Club, the gates will open early at 7:30 AM, providing an exclusive preview of the day’s events.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore an extraordinary array of aircraft on display, including the 1943 Auster AOP Mk 111, 1945 P-47D Thunderbolt, 1944 Auster AOP Mk5, 1943 Piper Cub L4, and many others. These historic planes will be showcased on the Infield behind the Aerodrome Café, offering a unique opportunity to experience aviation history firsthand.
As the event draws closer, the anticipation builds, with only a limited number of tickets remaining for Friday and Sunday. The full list of aircraft on display will be revealed in the event’s Entry List, set to be announced in the coming weeks. For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike, the 2024 Freddie March Spirit of Aviation at Goodwood Revival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of flight and innovation.
