Irish pilot ‘followed his drills’ as four survive Florida plane crash

Four members of the Ulster Flying Club have survived a plane crash in Florida.

The private aircraft lost power while approaching the airport in St Petersburg on Monday.

Two men - named as pilot Grant Jordon and Al Ryan - are in a serious, but stable condition in hospital. Two others, including a teenage girl, suffered minor injuries.

It is understood that three of those on board are from the North, while the fourth is Irish.

Chairman of the Ulster Flying Club John Hughes said the four were lucky, however he is also praising Mr Jordon's piloting skills.

“He followed his drills and spotted a park.”

“(He) attempted, despite having no engine, to get the aircraft into the park and did a very good job to make it,” said Hughes.