Learn to fly a Spitfire like a World War II pilot

Chichester flight school says the chance to fly in a Battle of Britain plane will keep the iconic aircraft operational for years to come.

Would-be aviators will be able to emulate Battle of Britain pilots for the first time in 70 years - by taking flying lessons in World War Two Spitfires.

Boultbee Flight Academy has become the first flying school in the country to offer Spitfire flying lessons and flight packages. They will take place in the same skies where thousands of heroic RAF pilots fought in similar planes to protect Britain against the Luftwaffe.

From £2,750, aviation buffs can take to the sky in one of two reconditioned twin-seat Spitfire fighters - which were seen as the key aircraft in Britain's survival during the war.

Passengers can enjoy a 30- or 50-minute flight in one of the two planes, which are powered by Rolls-Royce Merlin engines and reach speeds of up to 400mph.

Matt Jones, managing director of Boultbee Flight Academy, said that flying in a Spitfire is the most exiciting aviation experience available.

"Flying in one of these iconic war birds is an exceptional experience that everyone should have the opportunity to try.

"Trust me when I say that it is the most emotional, historical and exhilarating experience available in aviation today, and we very much look forward to sharing the aircraft with everyone who comes to visit."

The flights, which take off from Goodwood Aerodrome in Chichester, West Sussex, are being hailed as a way of conserving the Vickers Supermarine Spitfires for years to come.

A 50-minute flight from Goodwood to the white cliffs of The Needles off the Isle of Wight will cost £4,750, while a package for two, including the chance to fly in formation, is priced at £10,000.