The family of a Suffolk pilot killed in a Spitfire crash in Lincolnshire pay tribute to him
Investigations into what happened are continuing
Last updated 31st May 2024
A Royal Air Force pilot from Suffolk who died in a Spitfire crash in Lincolnshire "lived his life with an unwavering passion" and "will be cherished and deeply missed", his family have said.
Squadron Leader Mark Long, aged 43, died in a Spitfire of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) in a crash near RAF Coningsby on Saturday.
According to the Ministry of Defence, he lived in Lincolnshire with his wife, two daughters and a dog.
He was born in Bury St Edmunds.
Mr Long's family said in a statement:
"Mark lived his life with an unwavering passion with laughter, love, and dedication to his family.
"His talent for flying was there for all to see, and his ability to connect to everyone he met was infectious. Mark will be cherished and deeply missed by us all."
The Royal Air Force have said 2024 was his fourth season with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
Officer Commanding Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Squadron Leader Mark Sugden, said:
"In life, we are occasionally privileged to meet incredible people like Mark.
"Mark touched the hearts of everyone that he met, always prioritising the needs of others before himself.
"The epitome of a military fighter pilot, he personified the very best of the Royal Air Force and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
"We were lucky to have him as part of the team and part of our BBMF family.
"Always a vision of calm, Mark faced life's obstacles with a wry smile, a knowing nod and a pint of tea.
"Above all, he was a devoted husband and a proud father.
"Whilst words alone cannot adequately convey our loss, he will remain forever 'the best boss that BBMF never had'."