Sqn Ldr Long was a passionate and professional aviator who died in a crash on 25 May (Picture: RAF) — Sqn Ldr Long was a passionate and professional aviator who died in a Spitfire crash in May (Picture: RAF)

RAF

RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight team says thanks for support after pilot's death

Personnel from the RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight have thanked all their supporters for the overwhelming response following the death of a pilot during a flight earlier this year.

Squadron Leader Mark Long, a Typhoon pilot at RAF Coningsby and a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight pilot, was killed in a Spitfire crash in May.

"All personnel from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight would like to thank our followers and supporters for your patience, understanding and messages following the tragic incident of 25 May 2024," the RAF Memorial Flight said in a statement.

It went on: "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.

"As of Wednesday 26 June, our Visitor Centre re-opened to resume our public tours of the BBMF hangar, and following successful weekends on the ground at the Cleethorpes Armed Forces Weekend, Wales Airshow and the British Grand Prix, we can now confirm that our PR team will be out on the ground at airshows and events to meet you.

"The investigation into the tragic accident is ongoing, and we won't be commenting on that, but we look forward to seeing many of you either on a tour or out at an event this season."

While the investigation into the incident is ongoing, an inquest heard that Sqn Ldr Long died from head and neck injuries.

He was described by family and friends as "the very best of the RAF".

Tributes said that throughout his career, Sqn Ldr Long's commitment to excellence and his willingness to mentor others set him apart as a true leader.

"The epitome of a military fighter pilot, he personified the very best of the Royal Air Force and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight," said Officer Commanding Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Squadron Leader Mark Sugden.