Two People Unhurt After Ultralight Aircraft Makes Emergency Landing in Water off Crescent Beach
The sound of an aircraft crashing into the water off Crescent Beach on a Sunday afternoon may sound like a scene from a movie, but for two individuals, it was a real-life experience that they miraculously walked away from unharmed.
The ultralight aircraft, carrying a 47-year-old pilot from Surrey and a 40-year-old passenger from Port Coquitlam, made an emergency landing into the waters off Crescent Beach. Despite the unexpected turn of events, both individuals managed to escape without any injuries.
The incident, which occurred around 2:15 p.m., prompted several reports to alert the police. Authorities accessed the crash scene from the Christopherson Steps at the west tip of 24 Avenue to investigate the cause of the emergency landing.
According to Surrey RCMP Cpl. Scotty Schumann, the pilot informed the police that the engines had quit, leading to the aircraft’s descent into the water. While the exact reason for the engine failure remains unclear, impairment and criminal negligence were ruled out as contributing factors.
Schumann emphasized that the incident should not be classified as a crash, as the pilot skillfully maneuvered the aircraft to land in just a few feet of water near the shore. Witnesses described the aircraft as flying low and slow before the right wing caught the water, causing it to flip over.
The female passenger, reportedly on her first training flight, was accompanied by a man who appeared to be her boyfriend. Despite initial distress, both individuals were checked by paramedics and released at the scene.
Although initial reports suggested that Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre and Transport Canada were investigating the incident, Schumann clarified that the file has been closed, indicating that no further investigation is required.
The fortunate outcome of this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of quick thinking and skilled piloting in emergency situations. The pilot’s ability to safely land the aircraft in the water undoubtedly played a crucial role in preventing any serious injuries.
As the two individuals involved in this harrowing experience reflect on their close call, the community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that a potentially tragic situation ended with no harm done.