fighter pilot, instructor and display pilot. He inspired every single Typhoon pilot in the RAF, and taught many of them, bringing an infectious enthusiasm to every task. He mentored and cared for all those around him. Personally, he was a great support and friend to me as Squadron Commander but, more tellingly, he mentored many of our more junior members, some of whom have been selected to be trained as pilots themselves. As a member of 29 Squadron for the last decade, Squadron Leader Mark Long will be deeply missed and our thoughts at this time are with his family and those who loved him."

Squadron Leader Long's skills as a pilot and instructor and qualities as a military officer have influenced a generation of fighter pilots, colleagues said. Typhoon Air Wing Commander, Group Captain Billy Cooper added: "Mark was a hugely respected fighter pilot, instructor and friend, and one of the most talented aviators I have flown with. His service over many years has contributed such a huge amount not only to the operational effectiveness of the Typhoon Air Wing, but also had such a positive impact on the lives of so many. Mark was the quintessential RAF officer: humble, upbeat, and driven by an innate sense of service and professionalism and doing the right thing by others. His time as an instructor and leader has touched everybody on the Typhoon air Wing and people's lives are better because of him."

Squadron Leader Long was married with two children and lived in Lincolnshire. He qualified to fly Spitfires in 2021 and was due to take over running the BBMF from its current Commanding Officer in late 2024. His death on May 25 shortly after take-off in a Spitfire, was the first fatality recorded by the historic flight since its establishment in 1957.

Air Vice-Marshal Mark Flewin, the Air Officer Commanding Number 1 Group wrote:

"I was deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic incident over the weekend and wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family and his loved ones.

A superbly talented Combat Air and Display Pilot, Mark inspired all those he met with his truly infectious energy, across both the Combat Air Force and all those serving at Royal Air Force Coningsby.

Having seen first-hand the difference Mark made within the Typhoon Force, the Display Wing, and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, I know his talent and energy will leave a lasting legacy, which will continue to be a source of inspiration for us all."

This eulogy first appeared in RAF News HERE.

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