Lucky escape for trainee pilot

Hamilton Airport-based CTC Aviation has confirmed a trainee pilot escaped injury after an emergency landing earlier this week.

The aircraft landed upside down in a paddock near the village of Ohaupo, near the airport.

The pilot walked away from the aircraft.

All single engine aircraft training flights at the Crew Training Centre in Hamilton have been suspended until further notice.

Reportedly, the aircraft experienced engine failure and emergency landing procedures were initiated.

Acting managing director Julian So says the top priority is the wellbeing of the pilot. "The pilot was taken to hospital to be checked for injuries.

"We have begun an investigation into this incident to isolate its cause.

"The aircraft involved in the incident was a single-engine aircraft."