Pilot rescued after making emergency landing in ocean near OKI pier

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — A pilot had to be rescued from the ocean following an emergency landing Saturday evening.

Officials say a small, single engine aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the ocean, near the Oak Island Pier at 705 Ocean Drive just after 7:30 p.m.

The Town’s Beach Safety Unit was already in the area, having responded to a water rescue call nearby, and were able to quickly launch watercraft to assist in retrieving the pilot, who was the only one on board.

Town officials say the pilot was treated on shore for non-life-threatening injuries. The plane was recovered and is being towed out of the water.

Further investigation and response has now been turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration.