A civilian plane made a successful emergency landing on Redstone Arsenal last week after quick-decision making from former Black Hawk pilot Dennis Dunaway.

Redstone Arsenal officials received a distress call from a single-engine aircraft at approximately 7:56 a.m. due to reported engine failure shortly after takeoff. Along with the pilot, the plane was carrying two passengers — Dunaway’s friend and son.

Dunaway has more than 40 years of flight experience, but it didn’t take away from the severity of the situation. “Approach N78PL, we’re going to declare an emergency, return to Huntsville,” Dunaway said in air traffic audio. “Maintain our altitude; I’m afraid we’re going to lose our engine.”

After first attempting to turn back towards Huntsville International, he redirected toward Redstone Arsenal and brought the plane down on the outbound lanes of Martin Road, west of the Gate 7 entrance.

Redstone Arsenal’s Directorate of Emergency Services, along with law enforcement and NASA security officials, responded to the scene immediately. No injuries were reported and the plane was towed away for repairs.

The roadway was shut down for around 90 minutes while the plane was removed, and Gate 7 has since reopened.