Luton Airport Marks VE Day with Miles Magister Arrival and Celebration with 10F Luton Squadron. credit: Culture Trust Luton
(IN SHORT) London Luton Airport (LLA) marked VE Day by welcoming the classic Miles Magister aircraft, a key training plane from the 1930s and 1940s, in celebration of the airport’s historical ties to the Royal Air Force. In collaboration with the 10F Luton Squadron Cadets, the event recreated a famous wartime photo, paying tribute to the airport’s past. The arrival of the aircraft also highlighted LLA’s dedication to honoring its history while looking towards the future, offering passengers and visitors a glimpse into the past with themed entertainment and a connection to the Second World War generation.
(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 2025-May-9 — /Travel PR News/ — In celebration of VE Day, London Luton Airport (LLA) welcomed a classic Miles Magister aircraft, a symbol of the Royal Air Force’s training efforts during the 1930s and 1940s. The aircraft’s arrival, marking a pivotal moment in aviation history, was celebrated with a special event featuring local Air Training Corps (ATC) Cadets from the 10F Luton Squadron. The aircraft flew in from Shuttleworth Aerodrome and offered a unique opportunity to recreate a photograph from the airport’s wartime past, when LLA was still a Royal Air Force base.
Neil Thompson, Chief Operations Officer at London Luton Airport, remarked, “The historic photograph of the Miles Magister at LLA captures a significant moment in our past, and it was an honor to welcome the 10F Luton Squadron Cadets to recreate this iconic scene. LLA has come a long way from its days as a small airfield in 1938 to its present status as a bustling airport welcoming millions of passengers annually. This event allows us to honor the legacy of the Second World War generation while celebrating our airport’s rich history.”
credit: Culture Trust Luton
The plane, affectionately known as the ‘Maggie’, was flown to LLA by Scott Butler, an easyJet pilot based at the airport and a volunteer pilot at Shuttleworth. “Flying the Miles Magister from Shuttleworth to London Luton Airport was a truly special experience,” said Scott. “As a former Air Cadet and RAF veteran, I have a personal connection to this aircraft, and it was great to see the enthusiasm from the Cadets.”
Cadet Charlemagne Kirk added, “It’s an incredible privilege to be part of this historical moment. Getting a close look at a working Miles Magister and seeing the connection with London Luton Airport and Shuttleworth was a powerful experience.”
In addition to the Miles Magister event, LLA featured 1940s-themed entertainment, with the vocal harmony trio, The Femmes, performing classic songs from the era, including hits from Vera Lynn and The Andrews Sisters.
The Miles Magister will be on display at the Shuttleworth Military Air Show on May 31, 2025.
Contact Details:
London Luton Airport – PR agency:
E: LLA@tinmancomms.com
London Luton Airport Press Office
T: 01582 395333
E: pressoffice@ltn.aero
SOURCE: London Luton Airport Operations Limited
