Light aircraft crashes in Kildare

A light airplane crashed onto a major road today in Co Kildare, gardai said.

The pilot escaped without serious injury while no other people or vehicles were involved.

The single engine aircraft plunged into the N78 road between Athy and Kilcullen some time between 3.30pm and 4pm, it is believed.

Gardaí and emergency services are at the scene while the Air Accident Investigation Unit and Department of Transport investigators have also been called out.

The road remains closed to traffic and diversions are being put into operation.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible.

It is understood a number of power cables were damaged as the plane crashed into the road.