Premier helps Spitfire reach for the sky

As a certified aerospace company Premier has supplied a number of Spitfire components. Stuart Grant, managing director, explains: "We have carried out several repairs on original Spitfire parts this year. Although new parts can often be reverse engineered, for historic authenticity the original parts are, of course, irreplaceable." Premier is currently working on flight control foot pedals. "We have re-drilled, honed and precision machined these components," explains Mr Grant. "This remedial engineering work will return the parts to as new, or better, condition and ensure that the Duxford-based Spitfire they belong to can continue to fly safely. And, we also support the various ongoing restoration projects at key facilities around the UK." The Spitfire continues to top the list of the most sought-after vintage aircraft in the world with the value of any airworthy Spitfire being over £1 million and beyond that for those with combat history. "The Spitfire was one of, if not, the most effective fighter of its time. In engineering terms it was at the cutting edge of technology from the mid 1930's until nearly 1950, having extensive ongoing development. It encompasses in one aircraft most of the major developments of the end of the piston-engined fighter era and is synonymous with the most effective aero engine of the War, the Rolls-Royce Merlin," enthused Mr Grant. Over 20,000 Spitfires were originally manufactured.