Pilot dies after Spitfire crashes in Lincolnshire field

A pilot has died after a Spitfire crashed in a field near an RAF station in Lincolnshire, officials said.

Emergency services were called to the field near Langrick Road, Coningsby, shortly before 1:20 p.m. BST on Saturday.

The Second World War aircraft belonged to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight based at RAF Coningsby, the RAF said.

He said a “thorough investigation” would be conducted and he would not speculate on the cause of the accident.

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

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

The Prince and Princess of Wales were among many to pay tribute to the yet-to-be-named pilot.

In a statement posted on their X account, they said: “Incredibly sad to hear 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. BATHROOM.”

Earlier, Lincolnshire Police said the plane crashed in a field near Langrick Road, which runs along the perimeter of the RAF station.

Road closures are in place around Dogdyke Road and Sandy Bank, and motorists are asked to avoid the area.

According to its website, BBMF operates six Spitfires, two Hurricanes, one Lancaster, one C47 Dakota and two Chipmunk aircraft used for training. The planes are flown by regular RAF crew.