The pilot was not harmed and there were no serious injuries, according to Mark Nagi, regional relations officer for the Tennessee Department of Transportation. No other passengers were on board.
Officials believe both the pilot and good luck were able to prevent the tragic accident.
“He was apparently going to be on a ramp with little traffic, but luckily no one was involved with him and he was able to land safely, so I got him out and everyone else. I was able to keep it safe. Thomas Clinton.
Traffic in the area was affected for several hours and drivers were asked to seek alternative routes if possible.
Police said the plane was eventually loaded into a tow truck and removed from the interstate. All eastbound lanes on Interstate 40 have been reopened.
“I’m sorry for backing up traffic so far. I hate it because it’s bothering a lot of people,” Grubbs told WVLT.