de Havilland Canada Chipmunk T.10

The de Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk is a tandem configuration primary aircraft trainer developed to replace the famous Tiger Moth. Almost 1,300 were built for the RAF, RCAF and Portuguese Air Forces. The Chipmunk conducted its first flight in 1946 and entered production in 1947. The Portuguese Air Force are still operating the Chipmunk as a basic trainer, however, it will be retiring their fleet during 2026.  

The Chipmunk entered service with the RAF as a basic trainer and eventually 735 T.10 variants were produced. In addition to providing primary training and equipping the Air Experience Flights, eight aircraft were diverted to 114 Squadron in Cyprus to conduct security patrols. The Chipmunk was also used to train the late Prince Philip and HM King Charles III to fly. 

As part of our ‘Royal Flight’ theme, the bright red Chipmunk which HM King Charles III learnt to fly in will be joining our static display at RIAT26. 

Photo Credit: Alan Wilson