2 men safe after small plane crashes into northeastern Pennsylvania river during flight lesson

FAA: 2 safe after small plane crash in Pa. river

TUNKHANNOCK, Pa. — Authorities say a pilot trying to familiarize himself with his new plane had to ditch in the Susquehanna River in northeast Pennsylvania after experiencing engine trouble.

Officials say both men aboard escaped with only minor injuries, but endured tense moments as water filled the cockpit.

Tunkhannock Community Ambulance Association Chief Michael Henn identifies the survivors as owner William Earnest and fellow pilot Steven Gay, both of Tunkhannock.

The crash occurred near Skyhaven Airport in Tunkhannock, about 20 miles west of Scranton.

Henn says Earnest was flying and tried to reach the shoreline.

He says the single-engine Piper landed upright but soon overturned, leaving the men belted upside down before they could free themselves.