Two 1930s aircraft landed at Oxford Airport to launch historical air show Fly to the Past.

And readers will get to see the August 21 event at a special price.

As well as the de Havilland Dragon Rapide and Tiger Moth planes, Hercule Poirot, Lana Turner and Biggles lookalikes set the tone at the launch.

The airport is the new home of the show, which has previously been held at Blenheim Palace.

Festival director Francis Rockliff said Fly to the Past was the only event of its kind in Europe and would offer a “nostalgic trip back in time”. He said: “People can expect to have extraordinarily good fun.

“We want to give everyone in Oxfordshire a great day out.”

The show will feature four hours of fly-overs, taking the audience from early biplanes, through the fighter planes of the world wars, to modern jets.

Proceedings will start with a special fly-over by Christian Moullec, who trains geese and cranes to fly alongside his microlight.

On the ground there will be a collection of vintage aircraft, including Spitfires and Hurricanes.

Historical aviation films will also play on giant screens.

The expected 15,000 visitors are encouraged to wear aviation-themed costumes and there will be prizes for the best dressed.

Mr Rockliff said: “We are really excited that we will be able to land and take off aircraft for the first time, as we had no runway at Blenheim.”

Readers can take advantage of a special £15 discount on the £35 adult tickets — children 16 and under go free — if they book before March 26.

Tickets go on sale today by calling 0844 576 0136, or go to the website flytothepast.com