Union County officials responded to a crash involving a small green airplane at the Union County Airport just before 10 a.m. on Wednesday. The incident occurred on Clymer Road, a portion of the airport property that borders a wooded area.

Crash details

According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office 911 Communications Center, the caller reported that a green 2018 Zenith 750 aircraft had struck the ground in the woods. Sheriff’s deputies arrived on scene and found the aircraft’s tail elevated in the air while the cockpit rested against a tree.

Initial investigation indicates the plane took off westbound from Runway 27, climbed briefly, then made a sharp right turn that sent it over the taxiway. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground and a small tree before coming to rest.

Pilot condition and response

The pilot, identified as Bruce Atherton, was extracted from the aircraft by responding medics. He was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries and is expected to recover.

Law‑enforcement officers, along with emergency medical personnel, secured the crash site while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Union County Sheriff’s Office opened a joint investigation into the cause of the accident.

Ongoing investigation

Both the FAA and local authorities are working to determine the factors that led to the aircraft’s abrupt maneuver and subsequent impact. The investigation will review flight data, pilot statements, and any available eyewitness accounts.

Officials have asked anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office.

Community impact

The Union County Airport serves general aviation pilots throughout the region, and incidents such as this underscore the importance of safety protocols and prompt emergency response. Residents are reminded that the airport remains operational while investigators conduct their review.

Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.