A Nebraska pilot crashed his experimental aircraft into a construction machine Monday when he lost power during takeoff.
Terry Vinton of Mullen, Neb., was practicing landings and takeoffs at Everett Airfield in Elbert County. Right as he touched down, he tried to power up again for takeoff when the tiny biplane’s engine faltered.
The plane was headed for a road at the end of the runway, so Vinton steered it off the runway into a steel-wheeled road compactor, according to the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office.
The plane was pretty banged up, but Vinton escaped serious injury. He hurt his arm and managed to drive himself to Parker Adventist Hospital for treatment.
The National Transportation Safety Board looked at the crash site Monday and told Vinton to move the wreckage.
Vinton could not be reached for comment.
Staff writer Mike McPhee can be reached at mmcphee@denverpost.com or by calling 303-954-1409.
