Celebrating Twelve Years of Poppy Fly Past

Twelve years ago, what began as a simple idea — a Lancaster flanked by a pair of Spitfires soaring above a field of poppies — became something truly special. “Poppy Fly Past” was one of the earliest AirpowerArt creations, and in the years since its release, it’s taken on a life of its own.

More than just an image, it’s become a symbol of remembrance, reflection, and pride. Over a thousand copies have found their way into homes, offices, RAF bases, veterans’ associations, museums, and even onto vans and magazine covers around the world.

But perhaps most meaningful of all, Poppy Fly Past has also helped raise funds for charity — Including the RAF Benevolent Fund supporting causes that care for veterans, serving personnel, and remembrance projects close to the heart of the AirpowerArt community. Knowing that an image inspired by remembrance has gone on to do tangible good makes this anniversary even more special.

The composition was always meant to be simple: a lone Lancaster flying low over a sea of scarlet poppies, the warm light of a setting sun casting long shadows across the fields. Yet somehow, that simplicity became its strength. It captured the emotion of remembrance in a single timeless moment — both peaceful and powerful.

Over the years, Poppy Fly Past has become one of the most recognisable and enduring pieces in the AirpowerArt collection. It’s been reinterpreted, revisited, and referenced in countless ways, but the original still stands as a reminder of what inspired AirpowerArt in the first place: to celebrate the aircraft, the crews, and the history that continue to inspire us today.

As we mark twelve years of Poppy Fly Past, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported, shared, and displayed this piece over the years. Every print on a wall, every message from a veteran’s family, every sighting of it out in the world — and every pound raised for good causes — means more than words can say.

Here’s to twelve years of remembrance, art, and flight — and to the stories that continue to keep history alive.

Prints can be purchased via https://shop.photo4me.com/263323