By Zac Yates
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the RAF’s heritage flying unit, has reopened its visitor’s center and returned to airshows but its fleet remains grounded after Squadron Leader Mark Long was killed in the crash of Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX MK356, the first fatal accident in the unit’s history. In a statement released on Facebook the BBMF thanked followers and supporters for their “patience, understanding and messages” after the incident on May 25th, 2024.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received, and whilst unable to reply to every letter, email, and message, we have read all of your words and tributes and would like to thank you all for your unwavering support during what has been an incredibly difficult time.
“As of Wednesday 26th June, our Visitor Centre re-opened to resume our public tours of the BBMF hangar, and following successful weekends on the ground at the Cleethorpes Armed Forces Weekend, Wales Airshow and the British Grand Prix, we can now confirm that our PR Team will be out on the ground at airshows and events to meet you.”
The statement went on to say the air accident investigation was ongoing and that no comment would be made regarding same, but that the unit “look[ed] forward to seeing many of you either on a tour or out at an event this season”. The timeline for the RAF’s investigation and the subsequent decision on whether the aircraft will fly again remains uncertain.
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Zac, born and raised in New Zealand, grew up immersed in aviation, with his father working as a helicopter crewman and living at Wanganui Airport. His passion for aviation started in childhood, building scale model kits and following the global warbird scene. He later trained as a journalist but found mainstream media unfulfilling, leading him to pursue a career as an aircraft maintenance engineer.
Now residing in Blenheim, near the historic Omaka Aerodrome, Zac studies at RNZAF Base Woodbourne and aspires to become a private and warbird pilot. Known as "Handbag" in aviation circles, he shares his love for aviation through photography and writing, connecting with enthusiasts worldwide.
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