Spitfire Crash Likely Caused by Decades-Old Engine Debris, Report Finds
A British report concludes that a piece of debris, present in the aircraft's carburetor for decades, likely led to the fatal crash of a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire and the death of its pilot, Squadron Leader Mark Long.
A Royal Air Force (RAF) Spitfire pilot was killed when his aircraft likely experienced engine failure due to a decades-old piece of debris in the engine, according to a report by the Defence Safety Authority. Squadron Leader Mark Long, 43, died on May 25, 2024, when his Supermarine Spitfire MK356 crashed shortly after taking off for a memorial flight near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire.
The service inquiry panel determined that the engine performance data and witness statements were consistent with fuel starvation. The report stated, "The panel concluded that it was very likely that debris in the carburettor partially blocked the lean metering jet. This blockage reduced fuel flow, resulting in an overly lean mixture, decreased engine power and ultimately reduced thrust, preventing Fighter 2 from maintaining the performance required for safe flight." Chemical analysis confirmed the debris had been present for decades.
In addition to the engine issue, the report identified problems with the pilot's restraint system. The panel noted that the design of this system, crucial for pilot survivability, was "very likely to have been an aggravating factor in the accident" and recommended design changes to enhance survivability.
Squadron Leader Long joined the RAF in 2003, initially flying Tucano and Hawk aircraft before becoming an instructor. He later transitioned to the Harrier GR7/9 and was the last RAF pilot qualified for carrier operations. In 2012, he moved to the Typhoon Force at RAF Coningsby, serving as the Typhoon display pilot in 2016. He also undertook quick reaction alert duties defending UK sovereign airspace, including deployments to the Falkland Islands and Baltic air policing operations in Lithuania. At the time of his death, he was in his fourth season with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
Long's family issued a statement remembering him for his passion, laughter, love, and dedication. "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 Spitfire, MK356, was built in early 1944 in Birmingham. The report's findings aim to inform the military chain of command and the public, with recommendations intended to improve defence safety.
