Authorities say a small plane flew into some power lines in Orleans, knocking out power to homes, before landing safely at Newport Airport. The pilot suffered a concussion.
State police say they received several calls Saturday about a low-flying aircraft over Interstate 91. Responding troopers discovered a power line down near the Irasburg/Orleans exit.
State police say the plane, a 1977 Cessna SkyHawk II, sustained damage to its windshield, left wing and tail rudder. Damage to the plane was estimated at $20,000. Damage to the power lines it hit was estimated at $5,000. Homes throughout the Orleans Village area lost power.
The pilot was identified as 31-year-old Glen Howard of South Burlington. State police say he was taken to the hospital for treatment of a concussion and was later released.