Dambuster Flight Derbyshire

What Can I Expect

A Dambuster flight experience in a lovely Tiger Moth - surely the aerial trip of a lifetime? This amazing Dambusters experience will see you taking off from Derby Airfield at Egginton, for an extraordinary flight experience right over the famous Derwent Dams used by RAF pilots training for a very tough assignment.

617 Squadron headed to these tranquil dams to practice dropping Barnes Wallis' famous bouncing bombs. This was top secret flight training ahead of their mission to bomb German dams in what was officially called Operation Chastise. This critical mission became synonymous with pilots of 617 and led the squadron to be forever known as the 'Dambusters'.

We think this is one very emotive experience you will love, as your flight will recreate some of the moves they would have done over and over again in training, as you fly close to that same flight path that those brave Dambusters pilots would have been undertaking. 

However, you won't be in a huge Lancaster for your mission, you will be heading to the dams in one of the most iconic planes ever produced - the Tiger Moth. Full credit to this much-loved plane, as it was also very much an RAF hero, having trained many young pilots to fly - including perhaps the chaps from 617 squadron.

Your flight path will take you over the South Derbyshire lowlands and Dove Valley to the Derwent Valley, where you'll follow the river to the Howden, Derwent and Ladybower dams. At this point your skilled pilot will bring the Moth down to about 500ft for a magnificent view of the reservoirs. And this is all the more impressive when you think the Dambusters were in Lancasters flying at just 60ft above the ground, at three times the speed…and at night!

And don't forget, if you're up for it, you'll be able to have a go at the controls as you navigate the Tiger Moth in the flight path of the 617 Squadron bombers. Giving you an unparalleled sense of immersion and the thrill of ‘being there', this is a unique experience for any vintage aviation fans. Book your Dambuster flight experience out of Derby Airfield today.

Availability

• The flying season usually runs from April to October
• Flights are generally available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Alternative days may be available upon request
• Dates and flight times are subject to availability and weather conditions

Suitable For

• Minimum age 16
• Under 18s must be accompanied on the airfield by an adult
• Maximum weight 18 stone (115kg)
• Maximum height 6ft 4ins (195cm)
• You must be agile enough to climb in and out of the cockpit and medically fit to fly
• Participants must provide photo ID on the day (driving licence or passport)

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome, including well-behaved dogs and children (subject to current COVID-19 restrictions)

Anything Else

• Prior to travelling to the airfield you must telephone to ensure weather /operational conditions are suitable
• Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear should be worn
• It is recommended you bring gloves on a cold day
• Quality souvenirs and merchandise can be purchased on the day
• Photography packages (from £35) and video packages (from £39) are available to purchase
• A grassed viewing area with picnic benches and tables is available to use (picnics welcome)
• Tea and coffee is available in the clubhouse on an honesty basis