Plane Crash near Rochester Airport Leaves Couple Trapped 40 Feet in the Air
A light aircraft went down in thick woods near the historic 700-year-old Robin Hood pub on Blue Bell Hill’s Common Road, close to Rochester Airport. The terrifying crash left a husband and wife suspended 40 feet up in a tree, trapped and awaiting rescue.
Emergency Services Rush to Scene
Kent Police received the first report at 11 a.m., confirming the plane had crashed in a wooded area near Chatham. More than 20 emergency vehicles, including seven fire engines and a technical rescue team, were scrambled to the site. Ambulance crews and HM Coastguard from Lydd also joined the operation, using a winch to haul the pilot and passenger down.
Couple Rescued, No Injuries Reported
The daring rescue mission ended around 3:30 p.m., with both the husband and wife brought safely to the ground. Miraculously, neither suffered any injuries. The crash forced the closure of Common Road while the emergency services worked tirelessly to free the couple.
Cause Under Investigation
Police suspect the aircraft encountered turbulence, causing the pilot to lose control. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has launched a formal inquiry. A police spokesman confirmed: “At 11 a.m., Kent Police responded to a report of a light aircraft collision on Common Road, Chatham.” An AAIB representative added: “An accident involving an aircraft occurred this morning near Rochester Airport and has been reported to us. We are liaising with emergency services.”
What happened:
- Plane crashed near Robin Hood pub, Blue Bell Hill
- Husband and wife trapped 40 feet high in a tree
- More than 20 emergency vehicles deployed
- Rescue completed by 3:30 p.m. with no injuries
- Common Road remains closed for investigation
The incident has shaken the local community but thankfully ended without fatalities. More updates to follow as the investigation progresses.
