Historic Czech RAF Spitfire returns to Prague after decades abroad

A historic Supermarine Spitfire fighter aircraft associated with Czechoslovak pilots who served in Britain's Royal Air Force (RAF) has returned to Czechia after decades abroad. The aircraft, built in 1945, was officially unveiled Monday, Oct. 19, at Prague's Točná Airport, where it will become part of the aviation museum's permanent collection.

President Petr Pavel attended the ceremony, describing the aircraft's return as a tribute to the pilots and maintenance crews who served with the legendary fighter. Visitors also had the opportunity to see a Hawker Hurricane, another British aircraft closely associated with Czechoslovak airmen during World War II.

The Spitfire, bearing serial number SL633, was acquired from Australia by the Točná Aviation Museum. Its return marks a significant addition to the museum's collection, which preserves aircraft and historical artifacts connected to Czech and Czechoslovak aviation.

The Supermarine Spitfire Mk. IXe was manufactured in Britain in 1945 and assigned to No. 312 Czechoslovak Fighter Squadron of the RAF that June, shortly after the war in Europe ended.

The squadron, established in 1940, had participated in operations over Britain and occupied Europe during the war. Following the conflict, its pilots returned home with British aircraft that became part of the newly reestablished Czechoslovak Air Force.

SL633 was among 54 Spitfires transferred to Czechoslovakia, where it operated under the designation JT-10.

The aircraft is closely associated with Czechoslovak fighter pilot Karel Pošta, who served with the RAF during World War II and later became known for his aerobatic displays at postwar aviation events.

Pošta flew the aircraft during public demonstrations, including the international air show at Prague's Ruzyně Airport in September 1947.

The Spitfire subsequently traveled through Israel, Burma, the United States and Australia, undergoing several restorations before its return to Czechia.

Despite being more than 80 years old, the aircraft remains airworthy. Its restored appearance preserves the markings associated with its postwar Czechoslovak service.

During Monday's ceremony, Pavel emphasized the importance of remembering the people behind historic military aircraft, including the pilots and ground crews who maintained them.

He also praised the engineering of the more than 80-year-old fighter, saying it had retained its distinctive character.

Michal Masař, a representative of Točná Airport, said the aircraft's return carries significance beyond aviation history.

"Historic aircraft are not just technical monuments; they carry people's stories, their courage, their fates and the times in which they lived," Masař said.

He added that Czechoslovak pilots understood the consequences of losing their country's independence and had risked their lives to help restore it.

British Ambassador Matt Field also welcomed the Spitfire's return, noting that a Hawker Hurricane had joined the museum's collection last year.

"The story of the Czechoslovak squadrons in the Royal Air Force is a story of courage and a shared struggle for freedom that continues to unite our two nations," Field said.

The aircraft's arrival coincides with the 80th anniversary of Točná Airport, which has developed a collection of historic aircraft associated with Czech aviation.

Members of the public who missed Monday's unveiling will have another opportunity to see the Spitfire during a special hangar open day on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.