Spitfire Pilot Squadron Leader Mark Long Dies in Tragic Battle of Britain Crash Squadron Leader Mark Long Killed in Spitfire Crash at Battle of Britain Event
Tragedy struck at RAF Coningsby when Squadron Leader Mark Long, a respected RAF pilot, died in a Spitfire crash during the Battle of Britain’s 85th anniversary airshow. The father-of-two, who was due to take command of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) next year, plummeted from around 150 feet shortly after takeoff.
Beloved Pilot and Battle of Britain Hero
Mark Long had flown with the BBMF for four years, flying historic Spitfires to honour RAF legends. His last posting was as a Eurofighter Typhoon flight commander. Long joined the RAF in 2003 after graduation from the University of Warwick, serving tours in the Baltics and South Atlantic.
Group Captain Robbie Lees, head of the RAF Display Air Wing, paid tribute:
“Mark was a great friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.” An investigation into the crash is now underway.
Nation and Royals Mourn Loss
Floral tributes flooded the crash site and RAF Coningsby. Among those mourning were former prison officer Nicki Housam and her partner. The Prince and Princess of Wales expressed their heartbreak, calling the news “incredibly sad”. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer also offered condolences, praising the emergency services’ swift response.
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s First Fatality Since 1957
This is the first fatal incident involving a BBMF aircraft since its formation in July 1957. The fleet includes six Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster, a Dakota, and two Chipmunks, all flown to keep RAF history alive.
The Ministry of Defence and Lincolnshire Police continue to investigate the cause of the crash. The RAF and Long’s family have asked for privacy as they grieve the loss of a distinguished aviator.
