Pilot rescued after small plane crashes into Atlantic off crowded beach

A dramatic rescue unfolded off the Atlantic coast earlier this month when a small plane crashed into the water, trapping its pilot inside.

(NBC)- A dramatic rescue unfolded off the Atlantic coast earlier this month when a small plane crashed into the water, trapping its pilot inside. Newly released video shows firefighters pulling 57-year-old Mark Finkelstein out of the cockpit feet-first after his single-engine plane went down on August 2.

First responders Chris Dunham, Chad Butchello and Austin Lancaster said Finkelstein was stuck but managed to survive thanks to a pocket of air in the back of the cabin. They cleared a wire from around his leg and pulled him to the surface in less than 30 seconds. Finkelstein escaped with only a minor cut.

“If it had been another 30 seconds to a minute, the plane could have been completely submerged,” Lancaster said.

Authorities said the aircraft experienced engine failure. Unable to return to the airport, Finkelstein chose to make an emergency water landing rather than risk crashing into a crowded beach. Firefighters praised his decision, noting it likely prevented multiple fatalities.

The rescuers said there was no hesitation when it came to pulling the pilot to safety. “We all took an oath to save life and property, and that’s what we’re going to do,” Lancaster said.