Battle of Britain Memorial Flight reopens visitor centre following fatal Spitfire crash

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) has reopened its visitor centre following the Spitfire crash that killed Royal Air Force Squadron Leader Mark Long.

Sqn Ldr Long, aged 43, died in the crash involving the Second World War plane near RAF Coningsby in May.

Now the BBMF team have thanked their followers and supporters for their patience, understanding, and messages following the tragic incident.

• RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will not participate in D-Day 80 events
• Battle of Britain Memorial Flight displays paused following death of pilot in Spitfire crash
• Inquest hears cause of death of Battle of Britain Memorial Flight pilot in Spitfire crash

"We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received, and whilst unable to reply to every letter, email, and message, we have read all of your words and tributes and would like to thank you all for your unwavering support during what has been an incredibly difficult time," a BBMF statement said on X.

Squadron Leader Mark Long was a Typhoon pilot at RAF Coningsby who for the last four years had been a pilot with the BBMF.

Following the crash, BBMF remained grounded and did not participate in the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

The visitor centre was reopened on 26 June and has resumed public tours of the BBMF hangar.

The BBMF is known for its dedication to preserving aviation history and honouring those who served during the Battle of Britain.

The statement added that they will not be commenting on the accident as the investigation is ongoing, "but we look forward to seeing many of you either on a tour or out at an event this season", it concluded.