Edward Nealon
Question:4 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the circumstances which led to the Air Corps, Cessna aircraft being ditched into the sea near Gormanston, County Meath.
Written Answers. - Ditching of Aircraft.
At 11.15 a.m. on 1 March 1990, following the completion of a routine operational training mission involving two qualified flying officers, an Air Corps Cessna aircraft was positioning for landing at Gormanston Aerodrome when the aircraft experienced a loss of power. At that time the aircraft was over water south east of Gormanston. The pilot in charge established the aircraft in a gliding attitude and headed immediately towards the shore for an emergency landing. However, as there was not enough height available, it became necessary for the pilot to land his aircraft on the sea about 30 metres from the shore line.
I am glad to say that both pilots emerged uninjured and were able to reach the shore without difficulty.
The aircraft was later recovered by the Air Corps and returned to Gormanston Aerodrome. The cause of the engine failure is the subject of an investigation.