The RAF pilot who died after a Spitfire crash landed in Lincolnshire has been named as Mark Long. The Squadron Leader at RAF Coningsby died at the scene from his injuries after the plane came down at around 1.20pm on Saturday, May 25.
The RAF says an investigation is now underway and they have paid tribute to a “friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator” after his tragic death.
Group Captain Robbie Lees said: “It is with great sorrow that I must confirm the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long.
“Mark was a Typhoon pilot here at RAF Coningsby and for the last four years, he has been a pilot with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. A great friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator he will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
“An investigation into the cause of this tragic event has now begun. The RAF will not be offering any comment on the accident until that investigation has concluded, and likewise, we ask others not to speculate.
“I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the RAF personnel and our emergency services colleagues who responded so swiftly yesterday.
“Our thoughts remain with Mark’s family and friends to whom we offer our deepest sympathies. We ask that their privacy be respected at this tragic and shocking time.”
The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, led tributes to the airman following the news yesterday.
They wrote on social media: “Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby. Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot’s loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family. W & C.”
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