An investigation has been initiated following a plane crash at Heveningham Hall in Suffolk, where a pilot crashed his restored World War II aircraft while arriving for an airshow. The vintage plane overturned upon landing in the grounds of the estate at approximately 5:15 pm on Thursday, resulting in injuries to the pilot.
According to the Suffolk Police, the incident occurred as the pilot attempted to land at Heveningham Hall near Halesworth. The crashed aircraft, a Grumman FM2 Wildcat believed to have undergone recent restoration, came down within the 5,000-acre estate.
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has launched an investigation into the crash. A team of inspectors has arrived at the site to examine the aircraft and gather evidence.
Heveningham Hall is scheduled to host the Heveningham Concours event over the weekend, renowned as one of the UK’s premier annual motor car and aeroplane shows.
Emergency services, including ambulance crews and Suffolk Fire and Rescue, responded to the incident. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, sustained serious injuries.
An area of the estate has been cordoned off as authorities deal with the incident, and the AAIB has been informed.
The crash occurred just days before the Concours, which features a display of vintage cars and historic propeller aircraft on the grounds of Heveningham Hall. The event coincides with the wider annual Heveningham Country Fair.
The East Anglian Air Ambulance, one of the charities supported by the fair, played a crucial role in the incident. They airlifted the injured pilot to the hospital using their helicopter.
Despite the crash, a spokesperson for Heveningham Hall confirmed that the country show will proceed as planned. The pilot is reported to be recovering well from their injuries.
The AAIB investigation will seek to determine the cause of the crash and gather information to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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