An Armed Forces Day fly-by has been called off after military officials discovered possible engine faults in several planes set to take flight.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), which sees Spitfires and other vintage crafts take to the skies, was due to dazzle spectators with manoeuvres over Hever Castle in Edenbridge, and New Ash Green near Sevenoaks today.

But the flights have been cancelled after officials found malfunctions in an engine used in several of the historic vehicles – posing a danger to pilots and those watching below.

In a statement yesterday, the RAF expressed disappointment the show would not be able to go ahead as planned.

"The BBMF is currently investigating a fault on a Merlin engine and has taken the decision to temporarily pause flying,” said an RAF spokesperson.

“Several of our aircraft are powered by the Merlin and as a result, these historic aircraft will be unable to support Armed Forces Day events around the country as we would have liked.

"This is hugely disappointing for us and to all those who love to see these iconic aircraft, however, safety remains our paramount concern.”

The BBMF maintains a collection of Second World War-era planes including Spitfire and Hurricane fighter planes, a C47 Dakota transport plane and a Lancaster bomber.

Flown by regular RAF aircrew, the legendary flying machines can commonly be seen in British skies throughout the summer.

Displays feature at airshows and also mark special public and military events such as Trooping the Colour.

This weekend’s fly-bys would have commemorated fallen servicemen and women on Armed Forces Day.

But while the aerial show will not go ahead, people in the Kent area can still observe the planes at the Headcorn Armed Forces Day event, set to take place today between 10am and 4pm at Headcorn Aerodrome.

More information about the event can be found on its website.

Attendees can also enjoy a range of activities including parachuting, microlight flying and training for helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.