RAF VE Day 2025 flypast: Full aircraft lineup for 80th anniversary over London

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is set to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a low-level flypast showcasing its operational capabilities and historic heritage. On May 5, 2025, six waves of RAF aircraft will take to the skies in a commemorative formation that includes both modern combat platforms and legendary World War II-era aircraft. 

The formation is set to fly over Buckingham Palace in London at precisely 1:45 PM local time (12:45 PM GMT), marking the end of World War II in Europe and honoring the lasting legacy of those who served. The complete route will also take the aircraft over southern England, including Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex, before arriving in the capital city.

This year’s tribute offers a rare opportunity to witness a broad spectrum of RAF air power — from historic icons like the Lancaster bomber to today’s most advanced combat aircraft. The flypast, composed of six waves, is set to include 23 aircraft drawn from across the RAF’s current and ceremonial fleets.

A nod to the past

UK MOD / Wikimedia CommonsAvro Lancaster bomber — Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF ConingsbyThe iconic Lancaster, one of only two airworthy examples of the type in the world, leads the flypast as a living memorial to the RAF’s World War II legacy. Operated by the RAF in the 1940s, the Lancaster was instrumental in strategic bombing campaigns during the war and remains an enduring symbol of the RAF’s role in the Allied victory.
Strategic lift and global reach

A330 Voyager (air-to-air refueling tanker) – RAF Brize Norton

A400M Atlas (military transport aircraft) – RAF Brize Norton

C-17 Globemaster III – RAF Brize Norton
These aircraft represent the RAF’s modern airlift and refueling capabilities, essential for expeditionary missions and humanitarian relief efforts across the globe.

Guardians of the skies and seas

Royal Air ForcePoseidon MRA1 (maritime patrol aircraft) – RAF Lossiemouth

2 × Typhoon FGR4 multirole fighters – RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Coningsby
This grouping underscores the RAF’s role in maritime surveillance and national air defense, a reflection of today’s integrated security priorities.

Eyes and fangs of the modern RAF

RC-135 Rivet Joint (signals intelligence aircraft) – RAF Waddington

2 × F-35B Lightning multirole stealth fighters – RAF Marham
Combining advanced surveillance with fifth-generation strike capabilities, this formation emphasizes the RAF’s role in contemporary information-led warfare.

A display of precision and power

9 × Hawk T1 jets – Red Arrows

4 × F-35B Lightning – RAF Waddington and RAF Coningsby
The Red Arrows, the RAF’s celebrated aerobatic team, will close the flypast in a rare formation with F-35B Lightning jets — a dramatic fusion of heritage and cutting-edge technology.

Watch the VE 2025 parade:

The lineup provided is subject to change based on various factors, including weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, adjustments to the route may be made to ensure the safety and success of the aerial parade. 

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