Pilot Given Large Fine After Concrete Block Falls From Aircraft

A light aircraft pilot flying from Newcastle Airport has been fined for failing to carry out the correct pre-flight checks before taking to the skies.

Alan Gibson left a concrete block attached to the underneath of his aircraft that is usually used to tether the aircraft to the ground when not being used. The block remained attached to the aircraft during take off and fell from the underside at a significant height.

The block landed in a field only a short distance from a group of school children that were attending a tennis club. The children reported hearing a large thud followed by a large cloud of dust.

Gobson pleaded guilty and must pay a £1000 fine plus court costs.

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Published by: Jon Vickery