A Maltese-registered light aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in a field near Comiso, Sicily, yesterday morning, after developing engine trouble.

It is understood that the pilot was undertaking his first solo training flight with the European Pilot Academy and was approaching Comiso Airport shortly after 9am when the incident took place.

According to Transport Malta, the aircraft suffered a rough running engine while on a routine exercise and carried out a precautionary landing in a field in Vizzini, Comiso.

The aircraft, a Tecnam P2002JF with registration 9H-PPL, sustained damage to its undercarriage, but the pilot, who was the only person on board, was said to be “safe and well”. The European Pilot Academy said arrangements were being made for the pilot and the aircraft to be brought back to Malta.

The Civil Aviation Directorate within Transport Malta is collaborating with the Italian Aviation Authorities in their investigation of the incident.

A team of investigators and related personnel were dispatched to the site by the Italian authorities yesterday.

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