Debris in Carburetor Likely Caused Spitfire Crash, Report Finds
A Ministry of Defence report indicates decades-old debris in a Spitfire's carburetor led to fuel starvation and the fatal crash of Sqn Ldr Mark Long.
Debris that had been present in the carburetor of a Royal Air Force Spitfire for decades was "very likely" the cause of the aircraft's crash, which resulted in the death of pilot Sqn Ldr Mark Long, according to a Ministry of Defence report. The incident occurred on May 25, 2024, when the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) plane crashed in a field in Lincolnshire.
The Service Inquiry report stated that the debris likely caused fuel starvation, leading to a loss of thrust necessary for powered flight. Witnesses observed the Spitfire Mk IX, built in 1944, turn and descend to the ground just 56 seconds after taking off from RAF Coningsby. Sqn Ldr Long was operating the aircraft for commemorative flypasts and displays with the RAF's BBMF.
An inquest opening previously heard that the provisional cause of death was head and neck injuries. Chemical analysis detailed in the report indicated that the debris in the carburetor had been present for decades. The report highlighted that the existence of multiple, conflicting publications concerning carburetor maintenance created ambiguity regarding correct procedures. This inconsistency likely led to varied interpretations of the necessary extent of carburetor dismantling, inspection, and cleaning, which in turn reduced the reliability of detecting debris build-up.
While the cockpit design and restraint system were identified as aggravating factors, the report noted that any structural design changes would likely require significant modifications. Such alterations could impact the historic authenticity of the aircraft and potentially affect its overall airworthiness due to changes in mass and balance.
The report included 26 safety recommendations aimed at minimizing the likelihood of a recurrence or similar tragedy. These recommendations encompass improvements in maintenance records, reviews of cockpit protection, and enhanced training for emergency situations. The report described these recommendations as "robust."