In a dramatic incident on Monday, 9 February, a single-engine training aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on a busy highway in the U.S. state of Georgia, colliding with multiple vehicles in the process. The event caused minor injuries and brought traffic to a standstill, sparking concern among local residents.
According to local police reports, the aircraft experienced engine trouble shortly after take-off from Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport in Gainesville. The pilot, unable to return safely to the airport, was compelled to perform an emergency landing on the highway. Social media footage of the incident shows the small plane skimming the road and striking several vehicles as it descended.
Authorities confirmed that while the injuries sustained by drivers and passengers were mostly minor, the impact was significant. The aircraft’s right wing collided forcefully with a vehicle, dislodging its fuel tank, which then struck the rear of an SUV. Following the incident, the highway was closed, causing major traffic congestion in the area. Local authorities issued warnings to residents to avoid the route until the scene was cleared.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed that the aircraft, a Beechcraft BE-36, had been travelling from Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport in Gainesville towards Cherokee County Regional Airport in Canton. According to the NTSB, the pilot detected an engine malfunction shortly after take-off and initially attempted to return to Gainesville. Finding the aircraft incapable of reaching the airport safely, the pilot opted for the highway emergency landing, during which the plane struck three vehicles.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the pilot executed the landing at approximately 12:10 PM local time. Officials emphasised that a thorough investigation into the cause of the engine failure and the circumstances surrounding the emergency landing is underway.
Authorities urged the public to remain patient as investigations and vehicle recovery continue. Despite the chaos, quick emergency response helped prevent more serious injuries.
Incident Summary
| Date & Time | Location | Aircraft Type | Incident Type | Vehicles Hit | Injuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 February, 12:10 PM | Busy highway, Gainesville, Georgia | Beechcraft BE-36 | Emergency highway landing | 3 | Several minor |
This unusual and rare accident highlights the critical importance of pilot training, rapid decision-making, and the challenges of managing in-flight emergencies in populated areas. While investigations continue, authorities have commended the pilot for averting what could have been a far more severe disaster.