Emergency services rushed to Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome near Maldon in Essex at around 2.25pm on Sunday (August 16) after a light aircraft crashed during an air show, leaving the pilot with serious injuries.
Essex Police attended the scene after receiving reports of the incident. The pilot, who was the only occupant of the aircraft, was rushed to a hospital in London.
Police urge public to avoid area
A spokesperson for the force said those attending the event were urged to follow the instructions of organisers and emergency service personnel. They added: "The public are asked to please avoid the area to allow responders the space to work at the scene."
No further injuries were reported at the aerodrome, which was the birthplace of the Royal Air Force. It was also used in World War One to counter attacks from German Zeppelins and bombers.
Aerodrome confirms pilot's treatment
In a statement on social media, the aerodrome said: "Following the earlier incident at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, we can now confirm that the pilot of the Turbulent aircraft has been taken to a London hospital and is receiving treatment for his injuries. The site remains closed to the public."
In a Facebook post, the aerodrome had said the show would feature a display from its Turbulent team in which pilots would chase balloons and drop flour bombs from single-seat light aircraft.
Show was sold out
The show was advertised as a "festival of aviation" to raise funds for a First World War military aviation museum, according to its website. The organisers had said the event was sold out.
