Flights have resumed at Queenstown Airport after the runway was closed following a light aircraft crash earlier this morning.
The Civil Aviation Authority confirmed to the Otago Daily Times that a Cessna 177 made an emergency landing off Runway 5, around 8.50am.
CAA senior communications advisor Philippa Lagan said it appeared the aircraft experienced engine failure after taking off.
“A pilot and three passengers were on board. The front seat passenger has suffered an ankle injury and has been taken to hospital. The others are uninjured.”
The aircraft was removed from the airfield and the runway was inspected prior to operations recommencing at 10:50am.
Ten flights were affected, and airlines are working to reschedule these services.
Airport communications manager Jen Andrews said the airport’s emergency response plan was activated immediately.
Communications Advisor Gerard Campbell, in an emailed response, confirmed St John was alerted at 8.51am this morning.
Two ambulances attended and one patient with "no details of age or gender" was transported to Lakes District Hospital with "minor injuries".
He also confirmed three other people on board the aircraft were uninjured.
