Plane ends up in East Devon river after emergency landing

A plane ended up in the River Axe after having to make an emergency landing on Tuesday (1 August).

The two crewmembers had climbed out of the aircraft onto the wing and were not seriously injured, but needed rescuing from the river.

The fire service was called just before 2pm. With the help of a military helicopter and location-finding app What3Words, the plane was found in the Musbury area.

Fire crews rescued the pair using a triple extension ladder and water rescue equipment, whereupon they were checked over by the ambulance service.

No fuel or oil reportedly leaked into the river, and recovery of the aircraft was arranged.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "With the help from a military helicopter and What3Words fire control were able to get the exact location of the aircraft which was located in Musbury. The aircraft had made an emergency landing into the River Axe.

"Two persons climbed out of the aircraft and needed rescuing from the wing.

"The incident commander confirmed that the two persons were not seriously injured.

"The crews got to work rescuing the two persons... using one triple extension ladder and water rescue equipment. In addition the crews monitored the water for any potential contaminants leaks into the river. 

"The incident commander confirmed that the two persons were promptly rescued from the aircraft and handed to the ambulance service for precautionary checks. The incident was handed over to the police and the flying club."

Firefighters from Seaton, Colyton, Yeovil, Bridport, Exeter Middlemoor and the specialist rescue team from Exmouth all assisted in the rescue alongside police and the ambulance service.