Squadron Leader Mark Long, a Royal Air Force pilot, tragically died in a Spitfire crash near RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire, on Saturday. Long was 43 years old and a member of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF). Born in Bury St Edmunds, he embarked on his RAF career in 2003, earning his wings and serving as an instructor on various aircraft including the Tucano, Hawk, and Harrier GR7/9. He was the last RAF Harrier pilot qualified for carrier operations and later joined the Typhoon Force at RAF Coningsby.

Long was in his fourth season with the BBMF at the time of his passing. He resided in Lincolnshire with his wife, two daughters, and their dog. His family has expressed that he “lived his life with an unwavering passion” and will be “cherished and deeply missed.” Tributes have also been paid by prominent figures including The Prince and Princess of Wales and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Squadron Leader Mark Sugden from BBMF described Long as “the epitome of a military fighter pilot” and praised his dedication and calm demeanor.