William and Kate lead tribute to RAF pilot killed in memorial event crash

The Prince and Princess of Wales have led tributes to an RAF pilot who was killed in a Spitfire crash while taking part in a Battle of Britain memorial event.

The airman, who has not yet been named by police, died at the scene from his injuries after the second world war-era plane came down near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire at about 1.20pm on Saturday.

William and Catherine wrote on social media: “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. W & C.”

Others share their sadness at the loss of the pilot on social media and shed more light on the spitfire that had crashed.

A spokesperson from the Kent Battle of Britain Museum wrote: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the pilot that tragically lost his life in the Spitfire crash at RAF Coningsby yesterday afternoon, 25 May 2024.

“The Spitfire concerned was a Mk IX, Serial No MK356, which spent 16 years as the Hawkinge Gate Guardian Spitfire from 1945-December 1961.

“Sadly and tragically now she is also a memorial to another lost pilot.”

Victoria Atkins, the Conservative MP for Louth and Horncastle, wrote on Facebook: I am very sorry to hear the tragic news that an RAF pilot has died in the crash of a Spitfire near RAF Coningsby today.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the pilot’s loved ones, friends and the RAF family.

“The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is a national jewel and this tragedy will be felt by all who have watched in awe as BBMF pilots swoop across our skies at national and local events in commemoration of those who fought for our freedom. A sad day.”

Lincolnshire police confirmed on Saturday evening that the airman had died at the scene of the crash.

A force spokesperson said: “We are sad to confirm that a man has died after a plane crashed into a field on Langrick Road in Coningsby earlier today.

“The man was the pilot and sole occupant of the aircraft. Police are not in a position to confirm his name but his next of kin have been informed.

“Nobody else is thought to have been injured as a result.

“The incident was called into police just before 1.20pm today [Saturday] and emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene.

“Sadly, the injuries the pilot sustained were not survivable and he was declared deceased at the scene. Investigations are ongoing into the cause.”

An RAF spokesperson added: “It is with great sadness that we must confirm the death of an RAF pilot in a tragic accident near RAF Coningsby today.

“The pilot’s family have been informed and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.”