Staff Reports
SUPERIOR – A small aircraft made an unexpected but safe landing on U.S. Highway 60 near Superior on Sunday afternoon, May 10, after experiencing a malfunction shortly after departing from Superior Municipal Airport.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Cessna C150 took off around 1:25 p.m. and landed on the highway a short time later. Only the pilot was aboard the single-engine aircraft during what was described as a recreational flight. No injuries were reported.
Those traveling along U.S. Highway 60 captured the scene on video, showing the plane positioned on the roadway, with the pilot and several good Samaritans standing nearby as emergency crews responded.
Authorities confirmed the pilot walked away unharmed. Superior Police Chief Joaquin Manuel stated that the aircraft experienced a malfunction, which prompted the emergency landing.
The plane’s owner, who was not on board, spoke with local news after the incident. He explained that he had lent the aircraft to a friend for a solo recreational flight.
Emergency personnel quickly secured the area, and the aircraft was later removed from the highway. The incident caused temporary traffic disruptions but no reported damage to vehicles or property on the ground.
The FAA has launched an investigation into the cause of the malfunction and the circumstances surrounding the emergency landing. Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) typically examine such events to determine contributing factors, including mechanical issues, pilot decision-making, and airport procedures.
The Cessna 150, a popular two-seat trainer aircraft known for its reliability, is widely used for flight training and personal flying. Successful off-airport landings, such as this one, frequently depend on the pilot’s skill, favorable conditions, and assistance from bystanders.
As of Tuesday, no further details on the specific mechanical issue have been released pending the ongoing federal investigation.
