A small plane's rough landing, without working landing gear, delayed flights in and out of Blue Grass Airport for hours on Thursday. The pilot walked away unhurt, however some passenger's travel plans were derailed.
"I saw the commotion on the airfield. There was the downed plane, and some fire trucks and police around it," said Erik Degiorgio, who was waiting to pickup a friend from the airport.
It was not a smooth landing, nor a comforting sight, for people flying or picking up loved ones Thursday afternoon. Thankfully, no one was hurt, after a small single engine plane was forced to land at around 3 p.m.
"There was an airplane that was landing that had some challenges with its landing gear. And so, the plane landed on it's belly," said Amy Caudill, with the Blue Grass Airport.
Caudill said the plane came from Danville and only the pilot was on board. Based on the tail number, it's a Mooney registered to Brandon Beavers in Marion County. LEX18 News contacted Beavers, who said "I was not flying or even in Lexington at the time this happened. I do not wish to disclose the pilot or any other info." Beavers gave no explanation as to why he wouldn't say who was flying the plane, however travelers couldn't fathom how the pilot felt.
"I couldn't imagine going down and thinking that oh my gosh this is not working," said Amanda Hart, after her flight was delayed.
"I would have to imagine it was insanely terrifying for him," added Degiorgio.
It took two hours for the plane to be towed, and the main runway reopened. However, after the runway was cleared, the affects of the emergency landing could be seen for hours in a dozen delayed flights.
"Some planes that were coming in either were diverted to another airport, or those that were going out might have had a little bit of delay," said Caudill.
Therefore, people waited, watched, and some even went home.
"I will sleep in my own bed tonight, and get a first flight out tomorrow morning," said Hart.
Airport officials said they appreciated everyone's patience. It was a small price people were willing to pay, for safe travels.
"I am just glad that everybody was okay with the emergency landing. And just know that everything happens for a reason, and we will just go with plan B," said Hart.
BRANDON BEAVERS: http://registry.faa.gov/N5954Q
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