NEWBERRY SPRINGS, CA. (Pain In The Pass) >> A vintage small aircraft made an emergency landing on National Trails Highway/Route 66 near the Bagdad Cafe after experiencing engine issues.
The loss of oil pressure reportedly failed over Newberry Springs around 4:45pm on Saturday March 7, 2026, forcing the pilot and passenger to land on the highway.
The yellow vintage 1946 ERCO Ercoupe 415-C is a legendary two-seat, low-wing, light aircraft designed by Fred Weick to be “spin-proof” and safe. Known for its unique, bubble-canopy, twin-tail design, it features simplified controls without rudder pedals, allowing it to be steered solely with the yoke like a car
The pilot and co-pilot had spent the day flying around the Glendale, Arizona area back to Catalina Island. They were on their way back to Catalina is when the engine began to spit out oil from the cowling’s left side and the oil pressure was low.
“The pilot and co-pilot coasted the plane on National Trails Highway/Route 66,” the California Highway Patrol said.
No injuries were reported.
CHP said the aircraft was strapped to the back of a pickup truck, and was towed to the airport nearby.
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