A Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot tragically lost his life when his Spitfire aircraft crashed near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire during a Battle of Britain memorial event. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.
RAF Pilot Killed in Spitfire Crash During Memorial Event
A Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot tragically died after his Spitfire aircraft crashed near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire on Saturday, May 25, 2024. The incident occurred around 1:20 PM during a Battle of Britain memorial event. The pilot’s identity has not been released, but his next of kin have been informed.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, expressed their condolences on social media, acknowledging the loss felt by the pilot’s family, friends, and the wider RAF community. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer also conveyed their sympathy.
The crash site, located on Langrick Road, saw immediate response from emergency services, who confirmed the pilot died at the scene. No other injuries were reported.
Investigations led by Lincolnshire Police and the Air Accident Investigation Branch are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash. The Spitfire, identified as a Mk IX, serial number MK356, was part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, a collection of wartime aircraft that participate in air shows and memorial displays.
The RAF and Ministry of Defence have requested privacy for the pilot’s family during this difficult time.