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A flight instructor from Lancaster County successfully executed an emergency landing on a highway in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, after the plane's engine failed on Saturday (June 6). The aircraft, a Beechcraft B19 Musketeer, belongs to Smoketown Flight Center, a flight school based in Smoketown, Lancaster County.
The incident occurred just after 9 a.m. while the instructor, Douglas Beach, and a student pilot were practicing takeoffs and landings at Penn Valley Airport in Monroe Township. Shortly after takeoff, the plane experienced engine trouble. Despite attempts to switch fuel tanks, the issue persisted, leading them to make an emergency landing on U.S. 11/15.
According to WNEP, the pair safely landed the plane and pulled into an emergency vehicle median. Selinsgrove police and state police responded to the scene, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was notified. The FAA has since given clearance for the aircraft to be towed back to Penn Valley Airport for further investigation.
Smoketown Flight Center, known for its structured flight programs and commitment to safety, owns the aircraft involved in the incident. The center offers a range of training programs, from private pilot licenses to career pilot paths, ensuring that students receive comprehensive training and guidance. More information about their programs can be found on their website.
The incident remains under investigation by the FAA to determine the cause of the engine failure.