Crash investigators appeal for footage of Spitfire involved in fatal weekend crash
Investigators have appealed for images or video of the Spitfire involved in a crash at the weekend.
An investigation is under way following the tragic event that resulted in the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long.
The Defence Accident Investigation Branch (DAIB) put out the request for help from the public to get a clearer picture of what happened in the fatal incident.
RAF Coningsby posted the update on their Facebook page and has asked that any content be sent to: '[email protected]' and that you please include a telephone number where you can be contacted.
On Monday, the RAF put a temporary pause on flying for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, deciding to ground the BBMF aircraft while investigations take place.
No further comment on the circumstances or cause of the accident will be given until after the investigation.
There has also been no timescale on the return of the unit to flying.
Sqn Ldr Long was killed when the Spitfire came down in a field in Lincolnshire on Saturday.
The Prince and Princess of Wales joined many others in paying tribute to him.
On their Kensington Palace X account, the royal couple said: "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."
"A great friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator he will be sorely missed by all that knew him," said Group Captain Robbie Lees, Commander Display Air Wing.
"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 RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – a popular sight in summer – operates from Coningsby in Lincolnshire and has the mission of maintaining the aircraft of national heritage in airworthy condition.
This is to commemorate those who have fallen in the service.
The flight operates several Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster, a C-47 Dakota and two Chipmunks (primarily for training), with the aircraft being flown by regular RAF aircrew.
They are flown to celebrate and commemorate public and military events from state occasions such as Trooping the Colour to major airshows and flypasts for public events.
The BBMF also promotes the modern-day Royal Air Force and hopes to inspire future generations.
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