UTICA, Minn. — The pilot of a kit-built small airplane was injured when he crash-landed adjacent to cornfields six miles south of Utica in western Winona Cunty. There was no fire. The pilot, who was alone, climbed out of the plane and waited for help. Winona County deputies quoted him about an engine problem on the single-propeller craft. Deputies didn’t release the man’s name at the scene but said he was 62 years old. Medics from Lewiston took him 30 miles to a Rochester hospital for his injuries to be evaluated. The crash was about 6:50 p.m. near County Road 33 south of Utica and County Road 6 west of Fremont. The plane, a Glasair I, is a two-seater with retractable landing gear.
Into grove of trees. At remote crossroads. Airframe appears intact. Image: Winona County sheriff
Glasair I RG. China-owned Glasair, whose plant is in Arlington, Washington, has sold about 3,000 kits. Assembly time advertised as 1,000 to 1,2o0 hours. Promoted as “one of the quicker, easier, high-perform home-builts on the market.” First flown in 1979.
Specs: Wingspan 24 feet. Empty weight 1,300 pounds. Fuel capacity 61 gallons.
Perfotmance: Max speed 240 mph. Cruising 110 mph. Range 680 miles. Ceiling 19,000 feet.