Dutchess Community College Aviation Pilot Makes Emergency Landing in Terryville, Connecticut

A female student in the aviation pilot program at Dutchess Community College was forced to make an emergency landing at a campground in Terryville, Connecticut. The incident occurred during a solo flight from Poughkeepsie to Hartford, Connecticut on Monday morning.

The student was operating a Cessna 172 single-engine aircraft with updated avionics when she encountered a sudden mechanical failure. This emergency landing resulted in the total loss of the plane.

Reportedly, the pilot was working towards meeting the FAA‘s solo flight time requirements to secure a private pilot’s license when this mechanical issue arose.

Following the emergency landing, the pilot was taken to a Connecticut hospital for evaluation and observation. Fortunately, she was released shortly after with no reported injuries to herself or individuals on the ground.

Dutchess Community College is currently awaiting a comprehensive incident report from both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board. However, based on preliminary information, the college commended the student for her courageous and commendable actions during this challenging situation.

The college’s aviation program is based at Hudson Valley Airport, previously known as Duchess County Airport, situated in Wappinger.