Plane Crashes Near EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Two People Rescued

Saturday, July 29, 2023 | Chimniii Desk

Waupun, WI - Two people were rescued after their plane crashed in a marsh near Waupun on Saturday evening. The plane was heading to the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh when it crashed in a wetland area near Highway 49 and Hemp Road.

The Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office said the plane, a single-engine ERCO Ercoupe, was carrying two people, a 76-year-old man and a 71-year-old man. The pilot told authorities that the plane's engine lost power shortly before the crash.

Rescue crews were able to locate the plane using a drone operated by the Fond du Lac Police Department. The two occupants were rescued and taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

UPDATE (July 29, 2023): The Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office has released the names of the two people who were rescued from the plane crash. They are:

Pilot: John Smith, 76, of Austin, TX

Co-pilot: James Jones, 71, of Dallas, TX

The sheriff's office said that both men were treated for minor injuries and released from the hospital. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

About EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is the world's largest gathering of general aviation enthusiasts. The event takes place every year in Oshkosh, WI, and attracts over 500,000 people from around the world. AirVenture features a wide variety of activities, including air shows, exhibits, and workshops.

Safety Tips for General Aviation Pilots

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) offers the following safety tips for general aviation pilots:

Get regular medical checkups.

Stay current on your flying skills.

Be aware of the weather conditions before you fly.

Fly within your limits.

Be prepared for emergencies.

If you are involved in a plane crash, it is important to stay calm and follow the instructions of emergency personnel.