No one injured as small plane makes emergency landing on I-805

Published: Sunday, August 17, 2025 at 3:37 pm

Small Plane Makes Emergency Landing on I-805, No Injuries Reported

Sorrento Valley, CA - A small plane was forced to make an emergency landing on Interstate 805 on Saturday evening, causing significant traffic delays but resulting in no injuries. The incident occurred shortly after 5:35 p.m. when the pilot of a single-engine aircraft landed in the southbound lanes of the freeway near Carroll Canyon Road.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the white plane came to rest against the center divider wall, blocking both the center divider and the number one lane. Witnesses reported that the two individuals onboard the plane were able to exit the aircraft safely.

The plane, a 1980 Piper PA-28-181, is registered to Vandelay Aviation LLC. Flight tracking data indicates the aircraft had taken off from Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport at 5:05 p.m. and was flying along the coast for approximately 30 minutes before the emergency landing.

Following the incident, all southbound lanes of I-805 were initially closed, with traffic diverted at Sorrento Valley Road. Northbound traffic was unaffected. Authorities worked to clear the scene, reopening all but the HOV and number one lanes around 6:50 p.m. The remaining lanes were reopened by 9 p.m. No further details about the cause of the emergency landing have been released at this time.

BNN's Perspective: While emergency landings on freeways are inherently dangerous, the fact that no one was injured in this incident is a testament to the pilot's skill and the quick response of emergency services. This event underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance and preparedness in aviation, as well as the need for efficient traffic management during such unexpected events.

Keywords: plane crash, emergency landing, I-805, Sorrento Valley, traffic delays, California Highway Patrol, Piper PA-28-181, Vandelay Aviation LLC, Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, aviation accident

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