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Witnessing History: The VE Day Flypast Route
Eighty years after the end of World War II in Europe, the UK celebrated VE Day with a spectacular display of military might and national pride. A key highlight of the commemorations was the breathtaking RAF flypast, a moving tribute to the veterans of the war. This article details the route of this historic flypast, allowing you to relive the excitement or plan for future events.
The VE Day Procession and Flypast
The day began with a poignant military procession, a majestic march through the heart of London. The procession, featuring over 1,300 members of the UK armed forces alongside NATO allies and representatives from Ukraine, started at Parliament Square. It proceeded along Whitehall, passed the Cenotaph (draped in a Union Jack for the first time since 1920!), then continued up The Mall towards Buckingham Palace. A 100-year-old Normandy veteran led the procession, a powerful symbol of remembrance and resilience.
- Key figures: King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children watched the procession from a special viewing platform.
- Musical accompaniment: Military bands played stirring World War II-era music, adding to the emotional atmosphere.
- Public participation: Thousands lined The Mall, many having arrived the day before to secure a prime viewing spot.
The culmination of the procession was the highly anticipated RAF flypast. While the exact route was kept partially secret for security reasons, the Red Arrows, along with a variety of historic and modern military aircraft (including Typhoons, F-35 fighter jets, and a Voyager transport aircraft), were involved. The flypast commenced off the coast of Norfolk, tracing a route over East Anglia and Essex before reaching London. The aircraft soared over Buckingham Palace at approximately 1:45 pm BST.
- Aircraft involved: The flypast included the Red Arrows, Typhoons, F-35 fighter jets, a Voyager transport aircraft, and historic WWII-era aircraft. A truly diverse aerial display.
- Flypast timings: While the exact times varied depending on location, the flypast was largely concentrated between 1:45 pm and 2:10 pm in different areas. The Red Arrows were a major highlight.
- Airspace restrictions: Airspace restrictions were in place between 11:45 am and 2:45 pm to ensure the safety of the flypast. This ensured no disruption to the planned route.
Following the flypast, many of the aircraft returned to their bases, potentially passing over areas including Oxfordshire. The complete dispersal occurred over Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire.
The Surrey VE Day Flyover
Surrey residents were particularly fortunate, with many experiencing the thrill of the Red Arrows and other aircraft passing directly overhead. The flypast moved over Epsom, Ashtead, Leatherhead, Guildford, and other areas, creating a unique and memorable experience for those in the region.
Best viewing spots in Surrey were reported to be Newland's Corner (one of the highest points) and the southern parts of Guildford, Shalford, Chilworth, and Farncombe.
Conclusion
The VE Day flypast was a resounding success, a powerful testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in World War II. The route of the flypast, while partially kept secret, ensured that many across the UK were able to witness and share in this momentous occasion. The detailed accounts and eyewitness reports, along with the specific areas mentioned here, offer a rich insight into this historical event. Whether you were fortunate enough to witness it firsthand or watched from afar, the memory of this impressive display will undoubtedly endure.
