When a Skyfox Gazelle (similar to the one pictured) failed on approach to Casino airport, the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing.

He banked suddenly to avoid a retirement village which backs on to the runway, however the aircraft’s wings were ripped off, and the plane landed upside down.

Incident inspector John Gardon praised the pilot for skilfully avoiding the properties.

"The big thing when the engine does fail is to not panic and keep flying the aircraft," he said.

The pilot’s quick actions not only saved lives, but contamination of the waterway.

He was the only person on board and escaped injury.