HALSEWORTH, UK – A vintage plane crashed at Heveningham Hall, sparking an emergency response on July 6. The pilot was flying a Grumman FM2 Wildcat and was due to showcase the aircraft at the hall’s country fair. The crash occurred during a practice run for the public performance.
Emergency services rushed to the scene to tackle the aftermath. Fire crews from Harleston, Princes Street, Ipswich, Framlingham, and Lowestoft South were called in to assist. The pilot, who sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, was airlifted to Ipswich Hospital, where he received treatment and began to recover.
Despite the crash, the Heveningham Hall Country Fair went on as scheduled, attracting about 10,000 visitors over the weekend. In addition to aerial displays, the event featured the Heveningham Concours, showcasing vintage cars on the hall’s terraces.
An ongoing investigation is being conducted to determine the cause of the crash. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch will publish the findings on their website once the investigation is complete.
The crash at Heveningham Hall serves as a reminder of the risks associated with aerial displays and the importance of comprehensive safety measures for vintage aircraft. Families and aviation enthusiasts gathered to enjoy the fair, unaware of the near-tragedy that had occurred just days prior. As the investigation continues, the pilot’s recovery and the successful continuation of the fair demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity.