Pilot issues Mayday before plane ignites on highway
Pilot Puts Out Mayday Call Before Plane Bursts Into Flames on Interstate
A pilot and flight student miraculously survived a plane crash in Asheville, North Carolina on Thursday night. The incident took place around 8:15 p.m. on the I-26 highway near the Asheville Regional Airport. Both individuals escaped with non-life-threatening injuries, according to WRAL-TV.
The pilot was in communication with air traffic control before making an emergency landing on the road. Shortly after the landing, the plane erupted into flames.
Two passengers are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries after a small plane caught fire after a forced landing near Interstate 16 in Asheville, North Carolina. pic.twitter.com/gFM2HNZ7Lx
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) December 15, 2023
The pilot urgently called out “Mayday, mayday,” expressing doubt about their ability to make it safely. The two individuals were on a training flight with LIFT, the Leadership in Flight Training Academy.
A representative from LIFT praised the pilot and flight student for their skill and composure during the incident. They also expressed gratitude to the first responders who provided assistance at the scene.
WARNING: The following video contains language that some may find offensive.
A plane with 2 people on board crashed into the I-26 highway in Asheville, North Carolina. pic.twitter.com/5WwodiW6QR
— 𝓐𝓵𝓫𝓮𝓻𝓽 𝓢𝓪𝓶 (@AlbertSam786067) December 15, 2023
The Federal Aviation Administration identified the plane as a single-engine Diamond DA-40. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that the plane hit a power line and a tractor-trailer during the landing. Fortunately, both passengers managed to exit the aircraft before it caught fire.
The crash resulted in the closure of the highway, which partially reopened on Friday morning. The FAA has initiated an investigation, with the National Transportation Safety Board leading the inquiry and providing updates.
The post Pilot Puts Out Mayday Call Before Plane Bursts Into Flames on Interstate appeared first on The Western Journal.
What safety measures can be learned from this incident to prevent similar engine failures and fires in small planes
Ef=”https://t.co/HsgDD0ukG2″>https://t.co/HsgDD0ukG2 pic.twitter.com/CtePoKPPda
— Brandi Cummings (@BrandiABC11) November 15, 2019
The pilot, identified as an experienced flight instructor, was flying a small plane with a student when they encountered engine trouble. Realizing that they would not be able to make it to the Asheville Regional Airport, the pilot made the courageous decision to land on the nearby interstate.
The pilot’s quick thinking and skillful execution allowed them to safely touch down on the highway, avoiding any cars or other obstacles. The plane came to a stop, but moments later, it burst into flames, engulfing the aircraft.
Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. Both the pilot and the student were able to escape from the wreckage before the fire consumed the plane. They were taken to the hospital for treatment of their injuries, which were fortunately determined to be non-life-threatening.
This incident serves as a reminder of the courage and expertise displayed by pilots in emergency situations. The ability to make split-second decisions and remain calm under pressure is crucial in situations like these. The pilot’s decision to put out a mayday call before the plane burst into flames undoubtedly contributed to their survival.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified of the incident and will be conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the engine failure and subsequent fire. Their findings will provide valuable insights into how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In the meantime, the Asheville Regional Airport has expressed its gratitude to the emergency responders who swiftly and effectively handled the situation. The airport also commends the pilot for their skillful emergency landing, which undoubtedly saved lives.
This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and response both on the part of pilots and emergency services. It is crucial for pilots to undergo extensive training and remain vigilant in identifying potential dangers during flights. Similarly, emergency responders must be well-equipped and well-trained to handle such situations with efficiency and speed.
As the investigation unfolds, it is vital for the aviation community to analyze the circumstances surrounding this incident and identify any necessary changes or improvements to ensure the safety of pilots and passengers. Lessons learned from this incident can help prevent future accidents and enhance the overall safety of the aviation industry.
While this incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in aviation, it also highlights the incredible courage and expertise exhibited by pilots. Their ability to remain calm and make critical decisions in the face of danger is truly commendable. It is a testament to the extensive training and dedication of these individuals.
As the aviation community reflects on this incident, it is also important for the public to recognize the dedication and professionalism of those working in the industry. The rapid response and efficient handling of the situation by emergency services is a testament to their commitment to public safety.
In conclusion, the pilot and flight student involved in the plane crash in Asheville, North Carolina miraculously survived the incident thanks to their quick thinking and skilled execution. Their ability to land the plane safely on the highway and escape before it burst into flames undoubtedly saved their lives. This serves as a reminder of the courage and expertise exhibited by pilots in emergency situations, as well as the importance of emergency preparedness and response. The incident will be thoroughly investigated, and the lessons learned will help enhance the safety of the aviation industry.
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