Vintage aircraft damaged after leaving runway

Photo / Gavin Conroy

A vintage aircraft that left the runway today at a south Auckland airport suffered some damage, but those on board are okay.

Emergency services were called to Ardmore Airport about 11am when a Tiger Moth got into difficulties.

It appeared the aircraft had a mechanical failure as it attempted to take off, said Inspector Tony Edwards of northern police communications.

"It did get airborne for a short period of time. Initial indications are that the engine may have stopped."

Two people on board were checked by ambulance staff at the scene and were not injured.

Mr Edwards said he understood the Tiger Moth was damaged, most likely around the wheels or undercarriage.

The Civil Aviation Authority was looking into the incident, he said.