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May 01, 2026

Kansas pilot avoids injury after small plane mishap

Posted May 01, 2026 10:30 PM
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RILEY COUNTY —A Kansas man avoided injury after a small plane mishap just before 2p.m. Friday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1965 Champion S/N 7ECA-257 piloted by Stephen P.  Murtha, 36, St. Marys, came in on approach and completed its landing at Manhattan Regional Airport 5500 Skyward Drive.

As the aircraft slowed going down the runway, a side wind caught the tail of the aircraft, causing it to become unstable and the left wing to struck the runway.  Murtha was not injured.  

The accident remains under investigation.