3 months ago
WATSONVILLE, Calif. (AP) -- The pilot of a small airplane is dead after crashing the aircraft into an apple orchard.
Authorities did not identify the pilot, who radioed into Oakland air traffic controllers that his engine was on fire at 1:25 p.m. Saturday. He began an approach into Watsonville Municipal Airport, but never made it.
Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor said the agency is not yet certain about the make and model of the aircraft.
Residents near the Watsonville airport called in reports of a small plane smoking and going down, then the loud sounds of a crash.
The Santa Cruz County coroner, the FAA and National Transportation and Safety Board are investigating.
The Associated Press
