Pilot rescued after ditching into sea off Portsmouth
A rescue operation was launched off Eastney beach
Last updated 22nd Jun 2022
A small aircraft, believed to be a paramotor, ditched into the sea off Portsmouth on Wednesday afternoon.
Eyewitnesses said it crashed into the water off Eastney beach shortly after 2.00pm.
The harbour master and lifeboats went to the pilot's aid.
An RNLI spokesperson said the man was assessed after being brought to shore.
The extent of any injuries is unclear at this stage.
A Coastguard spokesperson said: "At 1.55pm, HM Coastguard received multiple reports that someone was in difficulties in the water off Eastney Beach and needed help.
"The coastguard rescue team from Portsmouth was sent as well as the RNLI Portsmouth lifeboats and the search and rescue helicopter from Lee-On-Solent.
"Hampshire Police, the police launch and South Central Ambulance Service were also sent to help.
"The casualty was been taken to shore by the lifeboat and passed into the care of the ambulance service."