The aviation community worldwide is receiving some very exciting news: The Royal Air Force (RAF) has announced that its historic fleet of Supermarine Spitfires and Hawker Hurricanes will return to air displays in 2025. Following the tragic accident in May 2024 that claimed the life of Pilot Squadron Leader Mark Long, the two famous fighters were retired from service as part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF). However, the decision has now been made to return the aircraft to flying status next year.
The May 2024 incident, which resulted in the tragic loss of Squadron Leader Mark Long, led to a temporary grounding of the BBMF fleet. The experienced pilot was killed when his Mk IX Spitfire crashed into a field shortly after takeoff from RAF Coningsby, a base in Lincolnshire. The accident occurred while the pilot was en route to an air show. The crash resulted in severe head and neck injuries, from which Long died at the scene. The aircraft itself sustained significant damage in the accident. The UK Defence Accident Investigation Branch subsequently launched an investigation to determine the causes of the crash.
Although the legendary Lancaster bomber, also powered by Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, was declared ready to fly again in July 2024 following an initial investigation, the resumption of flight operations for Spitfires and Hurricanes was delayed to fully complete internal investigations and implement all necessary safety precautions.
Return to the 2025 air show season
On March 14, 2025, the RAF announced on its social media channels that all aircraft of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight would return to service. The 2025 season will mark two significant anniversaries: the 85th anniversary of the legendary Battle of Britain and the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) and Victory in the Pacific (VJ Day). The BBMF will participate in numerous events with its Spitfires and Hurricanes, providing British aviation enthusiasts with another spectacular year.
In its statement on Facebook, the BBMF said: "We look forward to seeing you all over the country and to a great 2025 season." The return of the aircraft is an important gesture of remembrance and celebration of aviation history, which will be greatly appreciated by both the British public and international fans of historic aircraft.
Historical significance of the Spitfire and Hurricane
The Supermarine Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane are two of the most famous fighter aircraft of World War II and played a crucial role during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Both aircraft types were powered by the powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, a liquid-cooled V12 engine that was one of the most important powerplants of the war. Designed by RJ Mitchell, the Spitfire is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of British engineering and symbolizes the United Kingdom's perseverance and determination in the fight against Nazi air attacks.
While the Spitfire was known for its maneuverability and speed, the Hawker Hurricane was distinguished by its robustness and successful performance in defending against air attacks. Together, the two aircraft contributed significantly to victory in the Battle of the Atlantic and thus to saving Great Britain from potential invasion. Today, these aircraft are more than just historical relics—they are symbols of courage, innovation, and the sacrifices made during the war.
The role of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, established in 1957, preserves and operates aircraft that played a key role during World War II. Its mission is to keep the historical heritage alive and provide the public with the opportunity to experience these impressive aircraft. The BBMF fleet consists of five Spitfires, two Hurricanes, one Lancaster bomber, and one Douglas DC-3 Dakota, all flown by active RAF personnel.
Despite the tragic accident in 2024, privately operated Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft remain in the air and were displayed at numerous air shows throughout 2024. Two-seat versions of these aircraft, in particular, offer paying passengers the opportunity to take a ride in one of the legendary fighters. Such experience flights, starting at around £3.000 for a 30-minute flight, remain highly popular.
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