A British Royal Air Force pilot was killed when the World War II era Spitfire he was flying crashed into a field in England, CNN reported. The RAF confirmed the pilot’s death, calling it a “tragic accident” near their Coningsby base in Lincolnshire on Saturday.
The Coningsby base is home to the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), where regular RAF aircrew operate a selection of World War II-era planes, including six Spitfires, from May to September each year.
Emergency services arrived at the crash site off Langrick Road in Coningsby at approximately 1:20 pm local time on Saturday, according to Lincolnshire Police as quoted by CNN. Authorities indicated that the pilot was believed to be the only person involved in the incident. The pilot’s family has been informed of the tragic event, the RAF confirmed.
Tributes from various public figures poured in to honor the fallen pilot. Prince William and Princess Kate stated on X, “Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby. Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot’s loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family.” Prime Minister Rishi Sunak added, “Awful news to see the life of a serving RAF pilot cut short in this tragic event. My thoughts are with their family and loved ones.”
The Spitfire, one of the most famous fighter aircraft in British aviation history, played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain, a significant conflict between the RAF and the German Luftwaffe during the summer of 1940. With a total of 20,341 Spitfires produced, it remains the most manufactured British combat aircraft of World War II, though only a few dozen are believed to still be airworthy today, CNN reported.