Incident occurred July 13, 2014 in Portage Township, Houghton County, Michigan

An experimental airplane crashed into the top of a tree on Sunday evening.

Troopers from the Calumet State Police Post say the accident happened at approximately 5:00 P.M. on Sunday, July 13th.

 The single engine experimental airplane was executing a take off maneuver when strong winds pushed the plane into the top of the tree and crashed.

The plane was piloted by Dr. Douglas McKenzie of Hancock who was the only occupant. He suffered minor injuries and was driven to Portage Health Systems in his personal vehicle.

The Federal Aviation Administration authorized the release of the aircraft to McKenzie, who then made arrangements to have the plane removed.

Troopers were assisted on scene by the Houghton County Sheriff's Department, and no fire or rescue personnel were needed.

Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board were notified of the crash. 

Source Article:   http://www.upmatters.com
 
PORTAGE TOWNSHIP (AP) -- A lucky escape for a Houghton County pilot after his experimental aircraft crashed on Sunday. 
 
The Michigan State Police in Calumet report that the incident happened around 5:00 p.m. in Portage Township.

Dr. Douglas McKenzie of Hancock was the only occupant in the single engine plane when it went down.

It appears that a strong gust of wind pushed the plane into a tree top during take off, causing the crash.

McKenzie received minor injuries, and sought his own treatment.

The aircraft was turned back over to him by the Federal Aviation Administration.

The incident remains under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.

Source Article:    http://www.uppermichiganssource.com