Debris in Spitfire carburetor likely caused fatal RAF pilot crash
An inquiry found that decades-old debris in a Spitfire carburetor probably led to the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long during a BBMF take-off.
A Defence Safety Authority report attributes the fatal crash of Squadron Leader Mark Long to debris that had been inside the Spitfire’s carburetor for decades. The obstruction in the lean-metering jet is thought to have limited fuel delivery, creating an overly lean engine mixture and insufficient thrust during take-off. Witness accounts and engine data support the fuel-starvation scenario.
The inquiry also highlighted that the aircraft’s restraint system likely contributed to the pilot’s injuries, recommending design changes to improve survivability. Long, a veteran pilot with experience on Harriers and Typhoons, was killed while preparing for a series of fly-pasts with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The findings aim to inform military safety procedures and prevent similar incidents.
Why it matters
Understanding the cause helps improve safety of historic aircraft used in public displays.
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