On Friday evening, May 8, 2026, a pilot escaped injury after a small plane experienced engine trouble and made an emergency landing near the South Lakeland Airport in Mulberry.

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), the incident occurred shortly after 8:00 p.m. The single-seat, fixed-wing aircraft had just taken off from the airport when it began experiencing mechanical issues.
Key Details of the Incident:
- The Landing: The pilot successfully brought the plane down in a grassy area near State Road 60 and County Line Road.
- The Outcome: As the plane slowed to a stop, it flipped upside down. Despite the aircraft being overturned, the pilot—who was the only person on board—was able to walk away without injuries.
- Investigation: PCSO units arrived at the scene to secure the area and have notified the necessary federal agencies to investigate the cause of the engine failure.
This area, particularly near the intersection of SR 60 and County Line Road, is a busy corridor for both commuters and local aviation traffic given its proximity to South Lakeland’s airfield.
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Just wait until one of Amazon’s contractors drops an aging 767-300.
Wait til Amazon or Avelo drops one. Amazon flying the oldest fleet, and using subcontractors to shield itself from litigation.