Builder Featured on BBC Radio Suffolk
The builder of MK805 was interviewed on BBC Radio Suffolk about the 25-year project to construct a full-size Spitfire from original RAF drawings obtained from the RAF Museum at Hendon.
Read moreSupermarine Spitfire MK805
A Living Piece of History
for Hire
A hand‑built, full‑size static reproduction of Spitfire MK805, available for airshows, exhibitions, film & TV, and special occasions nationwide.
- 25+
- Years to build
- MK805
- Serial number
- 1944
- Original aircraft
- 1 Day
- Minimum hire
Why Choose Simply Spitfire
An Unrivalled Display
Authentic Full-Size Replica
Hand-built to original Vickers-Armstrong specifications using genuine Spitfire parts and period-correct materials.
25+ Years in the Making
Built over more than 25 years by a single craftsman from original RAF Museum drawings. Every rivet placed by hand.
Available Nationwide
MK805 can be transported to any location in the UK. Minimum hire one day. Full logistics and crew included.
Fully Fitted Cockpit
Visitors can view inside an authentic, fully fitted Spitfire cockpit, complete with period instruments and fittings.
The Builder's Story
Built by Hand.
Built for History.
In the early 1980s, a passionate craftsman obtained the original manufacturing drawings of the Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX from the RAF Museum at Hendon. What followed was an extraordinary 25-year labour of love, every rib, every rivet, every contour of the iconic elliptical wing reproduced by a single pair of hands.
The result is MK805: a full-size static Spitfire incorporating many genuine parts from the original aircraft, finished in authentic RAF camouflage and markings. Today it travels the country bringing this incredible piece of history to life at events, exhibitions and on screen.
Read the Full Build Story
Spitfire MK805
Castle Bromwich, 1944. Rebuilt, Suffolk, 2010.
The Original Aircraft
MK805, 1944
Built at the Vickers-Armstrong factory at Castle Bromwich, Spitfire Mk IX MK805 entered service on 5 July 1944 with No. 64 Squadron RAF. Follow its story from the production line to wartime service and beyond.
Explore the HistoryBuilt at Castle Bromwich
Spitfire Mk IX MK805 was manufactured at the Vickers-Armstrong Shadow Factory at Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, one of over 11,000 Spitfires built at that facility during the war.
Entered Operational Service
MK805 entered service with the Royal Air Force, joining No. 64 Squadron. The aircraft was assigned to active duty during the final year of the war in Europe, operating from bases in southern England.
Service with No. 64 Squadron
MK805 served with No. 64 Squadron throughout the latter stages of the Second World War. The squadron provided air superiority and escort missions over occupied Europe.
Retirement and Accident
Following the end of hostilities, MK805 was relegated to training duties. In 1946 the aircraft was involved in an accident that rendered it beyond economic repair.
Latest from Simply Spitfire
News & Updates
Simply Spitfire at Dover Castle
MK805 was displayed at Dover Castle for a special wartime commemorative event. Visitors were fascinated by the collection of genuine Spitfire parts and the detailed build story display boards.
Read moreMK805 Makes Stunning Debut at Intwood Hall
Our Spitfire replica drew enormous crowds at the annual Intwood Hall Country Fair in Norfolk, with visitors queuing to view the fully fitted cockpit and learn about the aircraft's wartime service.
Read moreWhat Our Clients Say
Trusted by Events
Across the Country
“The Spitfire was the undoubted star of our airshow. Visitors were queuing to see inside the cockpit from the moment we opened. An absolute gem.”
Event Organiser
County Heritage Airshow
“We hired the Spitfire for a two-day promotional event and it generated enormous interest. The display boards telling the history really added to the experience.”
Marketing Director
Midlands Heritage Festival
“The level of detail and authenticity is remarkable. Our museum visitors were genuinely moved. The team were professional and easy to work with throughout.”
Curator
Regional Military Museum
What's Included in Every Hire
- Full-size Spitfire Mk IX static display
- Display boards: history of MK805 & build story
- Collection of genuine Spitfire parts
- Mannequin in full fighter-pilot uniform
- Visitors view inside the fitted cockpit
- Simply Spitfire team on-site throughout
Simply Spitfire MK805
Bring History to Your Event
Spitfire MK805 is available nationwide for airshows, exhibitions, film and TV, and special occasions. Minimum hire one day. Contact us to check availability.