Historic World War Two Dakota aircraft set for flypast over Stoke-on-Trent this weekend

By Jordan Edwards 28th Jun 2025

The Douglas C47 Dakota is set to fly over Queen's Park this weekend. (BBMF)
The Douglas C47 Dakota is set to fly over Queen's Park this weekend. (BBMF)

A historic World War Two aircraft is set to take to the skies over Stoke-on-Trent this weekend.

The Douglas C47 Dakota is expected to fly over Queen's Park in Longton between 1.40pm-1.50pm as part of the Armed Forces Celebration Day event on Sunday 29 June. The flyover is weather-dependent.

The full Armed Forces Celebration Day event in the park, between 12pm-4:30pm on Sunday, is free to attend and will also include a military parade and a traditional drumhead service in tribute to serving and former members of the British Armed Forces.

The Douglas C47 Dakota set to fly over is one of the most iconic military transport aircraft in history, known for its role in Burma, the D-Day landings and the airborne assault on Arnhem in 1944.

The RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight's Dakota ZA947, affectionately named 'Kwicherbichen' by her crews, carried out paradropping operations on the eve of D-Day.

Alongside the flypast and parade, visitors to Queen's Park can expect military vehicle displays, emergency service exhibits and live musical entertainment. Family-friendly attractions include funfair rides and a variety of charity and community stalls.

It has been organised by the North Staffs Armed Forces Celebration Committee in partnership with Queen's Park Partnership.

Cllr Lilian Dodd, chair of the North Staffs Armed Forces Celebration Committee, said: "We're incredibly proud to bring the Armed Forces Celebration Day back to Queen's Park for another year.

"The inclusion of the Dakota Flypast in this Centenary Year makes it especially meaningful.

"It's a chance for our community to come together, show our appreciation and create lasting memories for all generations."

     

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