VE Day 2025 Flypast: Honouring 80 Years Since Victory in Europe

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5 months ago

Introduction: A Moment of National Reflection

Today, Monday 5 May 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day — the momentous day in 1945 when Allied forces declared victory over Nazi Germany, effectively ending the Second World War in Europe. Across the United Kingdom and around the world, commemorations are taking place to honour the brave men and women who fought, resisted, and ultimately triumphed over tyranny.

Among the most striking tributes to this historic occasion is the VE Day Flypast — a carefully choreographed aerial display over the heart of London. Set for 1:45 PM BST, this ceremonial event brings together historic and modern aircraft, symbolising both remembrance of the past and strength for the future.

In this article, we’ll explore the full scope of the VE Day 2025 flypast, including its participants, schedule, significance, and viewing information, while reflecting on the legacy of VE Day eight decades on.

The Historical Legacy of VE Day

VE Day — Victory in Europe Day — was first celebrated on 8 May 1945, following the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany. After nearly six years of conflict that cost millions of lives and reshaped the globe, peace had finally returned to Europe. The streets of Britain erupted in joy, with people dancing in Trafalgar Square, singing in pubs, and crowding in front of Buckingham Palace where Prime Minister Winston Churchill and members of the Royal Family appeared on the balcony.

Since then, VE Day has remained a key national moment in the UK and other Allied nations. It is a time to remember the courage and sacrifice of the war generation — soldiers, sailors, airmen, nurses, resistance fighters, and civilians alike — who stood together against fascism.

Now, 80 years later, those sacrifices are being honoured once more in a deeply symbolic and visually stunning flypast over London.

When Is the VE Day 2025 Flypast?

The official VE Day 2025 flypast is scheduled for 1:45 PM BST on Monday 5 May 2025. It marks the climax of a day of national celebrations and ceremonies, including military parades, speeches, and gatherings of veterans and their families.

The flypast will pass directly over Buckingham Palace, where King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and other members of the Royal Family will be present on the palace balcony to watch and salute the aircraft.

Aircraft Taking Part in the Flypast

This year’s flypast will feature 24 aircraft, representing both the historical legacy and modern capabilities of the Royal Air Force and allied air forces. The aircraft are arranged into formations, each symbolising key elements of the UK’s military aviation history.

Here are the highlights:

Historic Aircraft

Avro Lancaster Bomber: A symbol of Britain’s air power in World War II, this bomber flew countless missions over Nazi-occupied Europe. Operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, it’s one of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world.
Spitfire and Hurricane Fighters: These legendary aircraft defended British skies during the Battle of Britain and are still beloved icons of wartime heroism.

Modern Aircraft

RAF Typhoon FGR4: A cutting-edge multirole fighter used in air defence and operations abroad.
F-35B Lightning II: Britain’s stealth fighter, capable of vertical takeoff and advanced reconnaissance, also used by the Royal Navy and US Marine Corps.
A400M Atlas: A military transport plane capable of strategic and tactical missions, including cargo drops and humanitarian assistance.
C-17 Globemaster III: A strategic airlifter known for transporting troops and heavy equipment.
Voyager Tanker: Provides air-to-air refuelling, extending the range and capability of RAF fighters.
Poseidon MRA1: A maritime patrol aircraft used in submarine detection and surveillance.
RC-135 Rivet Joint: A signals intelligence aircraft used to collect and analyse electronic data.

The Red Arrows

Britain’s Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, will close the flypast in their trademark dramatic fashion. Expect trails of red, white, and blue smoke over Buckingham Palace — a fitting finish to the aerial salute.

Flypast Route and Viewing Opportunities

The flypast formation begins its journey in the east of England — passing over Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex — before heading toward London. By 1:45 PM, the aircraft will be visible over central London.

Key Locations for Viewing:

The Mall: Spectators can line this iconic boulevard leading up to Buckingham Palace. Large crowds are expected, and access is monitored for safety.
Whitehall and Parliament Square: Ideal spots to see the earlier military procession and hear live readings of historical speeches.
Victoria Embankment: Offers open skies and wide viewing angles.

For those outside London or unable to attend in person, BBC One, Sky News, and other networks are broadcasting the flypast live, alongside comprehensive coverage of VE Day events across the UK.

Who Is Involved in the Ceremony?

The VE Day 2025 commemorations are a major state occasion, drawing participation from across the UK and abroad.

The Royal Family

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are leading today’s events, continuing the Royal Family’s long tradition of military service and remembrance.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, along with their children, are attending various ceremonies throughout the day.
Senior royals are hosting a special veterans’ tea party at Buckingham Palace after the flypast.

Veterans and the Armed Forces

Over 1,300 military personnel are taking part in a formal procession from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace.
Veterans of World War II, including centenarians, are present both in London and at local events nationwide.
Troops from NATO allies and Ukrainian forces are also participating, highlighting the continued relevance of international cooperation and mutual defence.

Civic and Cultural Contributors

British actor Timothy Spall gave a powerful reading of Winston Churchill’s 1945 victory speech at midday in Parliament Square.
Church services, musical performances, and exhibitions are taking place across the country to honour the wartime generation.

Security and Public Safety

With such a high-profile event in the heart of London, security is tight. The Metropolitan Police, in coordination with the Ministry of Defence, has implemented road closures and crowd-control measures throughout central London.

Officials are encouraging attendees to:

Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Use public transport where possible.
Follow the directions of stewards and police for safe crowd movement.
Stay hydrated and wear weather-appropriate clothing.

Why the Flypast Matters: A Symbol Beyond Spectacle

Though the visual appeal of 24 aircraft soaring over the London skyline is immense, the significance of the flypast is deeper. Each aircraft represents the resilience of those who fought in WWII, and each roar of engines reminds us of what peace costs — and how precious it remains.

Three Key Messages of the Flypast:

Remembrance: Honouring the millions who served and the countless lives lost during World War II.
Unity: Reflecting on how nations came together in the past and must continue to collaborate in facing modern challenges.
Legacy: Inspiring younger generations to learn from history and uphold the values of courage, democracy, and sacrifice.

As King Charles said in his recent message:

“Today we do not just remember a moment of victory; we remember the endurance of those who made it possible, and we recommit ourselves to the cause of peace for which they gave so much.”

VE Day Around the Country

While the flypast in London is the focal point, VE Day is being marked in communities throughout the UK:

Edinburgh: A beacon lighting ceremony at the castle, followed by bagpipe performances and a veterans’ parade.
Cardiff: A city-wide bell-ringing event and open-air concerts.
Belfast: Wreath-laying at the Cenotaph and a community storytelling project featuring WWII veterans.

Many schools are holding special assemblies and history projects, ensuring that the meaning of VE Day lives on through education.

Looking Ahead: Keeping the Flame Alive

This year’s 80th anniversary may be the last major VE Day celebration where living veterans from the Second World War can participate in person. It is a poignant reminder of time’s passage — and the importance of preserving these stories before they are lost.

Government and educational organisations are urging people to:

Record oral histories from older relatives.
Visit local war memorials or museums.
Support veterans’ charities like the Royal British Legion.
Talk to children and students about the war and its lessons.

The RAF Museum, Imperial War Museums, and Bletchley Park are also offering free entry and special programming this week to mark the anniversary.

Conclusion

As the aircraft pass over Buckingham Palace at 1:45 PM today, their presence will echo across more than just the skies — they will stir memories, honour heroes, and remind us of the enduring price of freedom.

The VE Day 2025 flypast is more than just an air display. It’s a national moment of gratitude, unity, and reflection. And as we look up, we remember not just how we won peace — but why we must continue to protect it.