Plane taking off from Long Island crashes into icy Hudson River during emergency landing

Published: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 4:21 am

Small Plane Crashes into Hudson River, Passengers Survive

A small plane crashed into the icy Hudson River on Monday evening after attempting an emergency landing, according to reports. The single-engine Cessna 172, carrying two individuals, went down near the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge around 8 p.m. after reportedly experiencing a loss of power.

Emergency responders were initially challenged in locating the aircraft. However, they eventually found the plane submerged in the river, surrounded by floating ice. The pilot and passenger managed to evacuate the plane after the impact and swam to shore in the frigid waters. Both were subsequently transported to local hospitals and are expected to fully recover.

The plane had departed from Long Island MacArthur Airport earlier in the evening. Flight tracking data indicates the flight took off around 6:55 p.m. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the cause of the incident.

Public officials have expressed relief at the successful rescue. New York Governor Kathy Hochul described the safe outcome as a "miracle on the Hudson." Representatives from the area have also acknowledged the swift response of first responders.

BNN's Perspective:

The successful rescue of the pilot and passenger is a testament to the skill of the individuals involved and the effectiveness of emergency response teams. While the incident underscores the inherent risks of air travel, the positive outcome highlights the importance of preparedness and the dedication of first responders. The FAA investigation will be crucial in determining the cause of the crash and preventing similar incidents in the future.

Keywords: plane crash, Hudson River, emergency landing, Cessna 172, Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, FAA investigation, pilot, passenger, rescue, icy water, Long Island, New York, aviation accident

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