The Royal Air Force has temporarily paused all flying for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) after the death of a Spitfire pilot in Lincolnshire. Squadron Leader Mark Long, who was based at RAF Coningsby, died at the scene from his injuries after the plane came down at around 1.20pm on Saturday, May 25.
An RAF investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is now underway and all BBMF flights have been paused while it is carried out. A Royal Air Force spokesperson said: “Following the tragic accident at RAF Coningsby, and while the formal investigation is ongoing, the RAF has instigated a temporary pause in flying for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.”
Tributes came flooding in for the Sqn Ldr Long following his 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, also paid tribute to the airman. On Saturday, 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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