Plane crashes into sea at Bournemouth Air Festival
The crew of the wing walking aircraft suffered only "minor injuries"
Last updated 5th Sep 2021
Flying displays at Bournemouth Air Festival were suspended on Saturday when a plane crashed into the sea off Sandbanks.
The biplane was part of the Aerosuperbatics wing walking display team which had been taking part in a display.
Festival organisers said the crew were "safe and sound".
An investigation is now underway to discover why the plane came down as experts recover the aircraft from the water.
A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "We received a report at 3.50pm on Saturday that a small aircraft had crashed into the water in the Sandbanks area of Poole Harbour.
"The aircraft was part of the Bournemouth Air Festival flight schedule with two people reported to be onboard.
"Both occupants have been rescued and are reported to have sustained minor injuries.
"They are receiving treatment by the ambulance service".
Philip Broadhead, deputy leader of BCP Council, said: "Thanks to those immediately on the scene who were able to ensure that this was a technical hitch with a safe ending."
Bournemouth Air Festival said: "Following the incident earlier today, the site of the crash has been secured and will remain so overnight.
"Members of the public are requested to avoid the area. The aircraft will be recovered in due course, subject to tides and harbour traffic.
"We would like to thank the RNLI, Coastguard, South West Ambulance, Dorset Police, Poole Harbour Commissioners and all those who took part in the rescue of the two people aboard the aircraft.
"It is a huge relief for all those involved in the Air Festival that the incident has resulted in the display crew being removed from the water safe and well.
"We would also like to thank members of the public for bearing with us all and continuing to make the most of the fabulous ground programme that continued at the air festival.
Organisers have confirmed planes will take to the skies on Sunday (5th).