Air Station Savannah rescues downed pilot

February 14, 2005

SAVANNAH, Ga. — A Coast Guard helicopter crew from Air Station Savannah rescued a pilot this afternoon who crashed into the marsh 20 miles south of Savannah.

David Johnson, 46, of Raleigh, N.C. was enroute to Hilton Head Airport for fuel when the engine on his Piper Cub quit. Johnson left New Smyrna Beach earlier in the day and was planning to continue home to Raleigh this evening in his recently rebuilt, 1940’s era aircraft.

Unable to find a road or field to land in, Johnson completed a power-off landing into the marsh. After his aircraft flipped over, Johnson was able to evacuate and call 911 and the Federal Aviation Administration on his cell phone.

Upon receiving notification, Air Station Savannah rescue crews immedately launched to locate Mr. Johnson. A Coast Guard Auxialiary aircraft in the area was also diverted to help in the search. The Coast Guard Auxiliary aircraft was the first to spot the downed pilot and assisted in the rescue by holding its position untill the Coast Guard helicopter from Savannah arrived. Coast Guard rescue crews then hoisted Johnson aboard and brought him to Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.

Upon arrivng at Hunter Army Airfield, Mr. Johnson was treated by local EMS for minor injuries and released.

Air Station Savannah rescues downed pilot

SAVANNAH, Ga. — A Coast Guard helicopter crew from Air Station Savannah rescued a pilot this afternoon who crashed into the marsh 20 miles south of Savannah.

Upon arrivng at Hunter Army Airfield, Mr. Johnson was treated by local EMS for minor injuries and released.

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