San Tan Valley, AZ – On June 28, 2025, at approximately 2:00 p.m., a small single-engine Red Biplane aircraft executed a successful emergency landing near Rittenhouse Army Heliport (FAA LID: AZ38) in San Tan Valley, Arizona, following reports of mechanical malfunctions during flight. The Arizona Army National Guard training airstrip, located 11.5 miles east of Queen Creek in Pinal County, served as the landing site for the distressed aircraft.
The pilot, whose identity has not been disclosed, reported issues with the plane’s engine while flying over the region. Authorities confirmed that the pilot contacted air traffic control but had to emergency land near the heliport, which features a single 1,500-foot asphalt runway primarily used for military helicopter training. The landing was completed without incident, and no injuries were reported. The pilot was not injured but requested a bottle of water. The plane had an engine failure but is not damaged.
Emergency response teams from the town of Florence were dispatched to the scene to assist, and the aircraft was secured after a thorough search for the aircraft. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been notified and are expected to investigate the cause of the malfunction.
Details regarding the aircraft type, origin, and destination remain limited, and authorities have not released further information about the incident at this time. The Rittenhouse Army Heliport, typically closed to civilian traffic, requires prior permission for non-military aircraft, indicating the emergency nature of the landing.
The successful landing under such circumstances highlights the importance of pilot training and quick decision-making. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the FAA or local authorities.
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