Merlin-engined Spitfires and Hurricanes return to display duties
March 14, 2025
The Flight grounded its five Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster bomber, and a Dakota transport aircraft after the new CO designate, Squadron Leader Mark Long, was killed. Long died after the engine of the Spitfire Mk IXe MK356 he was flying failed shortly after take off. The aircraft crashed in a field near RAF Coningsby on 25 May 2024.
The Lancaster, which is powered by four Rolls Royce Merlin engines, was to return to flying in July 2024 following routine checks, and Griffon-engined Spitfire PR.Mk XIX PM631 received clearance to fly at the end of September and took to the air for the first time on Thursday 3 October in the hands of OC BBMF, Squadron Leader Mark ‘Suggs’ Sugden, for a Post ‘Major’ Maintenance Air Test. The aircraft had been undergoing engineering work for three years.
One of the Flight’s Merlin-engined Spitfires, Mk.XVI, returned to flying on 14 March, and the BBMF is now working hard behind the scenes to confirm our flying display schedule for the year. This will be revealed in April 2025.
The BBMF are pleased to announce we will be flying our Merlin engine fighters this Display Season. Alongside our Lancaster, and after the return of our, all aircraft types will be flying again this year.
We look forward to seeing you around the country and having a great Display Season celebrating the 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and 80th Anniversaries of VE and VJ Day.
