A pilot escaped with just minor injuries after his plane flipped over at the Rockcliffe Airport this morning. 

The Cessna 172 is owned by the Rockcliffe Flying Club.

The student pilot had just been cleared by his instructor for what was to be his third solo flight.

During take-off the plane drifted too close to the edge of the runway, caught the snowbank and flipped over. Damage to the plane is estimated at $25,000. Fire crews are on scene to ensure there are no leaks.

Rockliffe Flying Club General Manager, Simon Garrett, says the pilot suffered a cut to his forehead and is shaken up but otherwise okay.

Garrett says it is the fourth incident at Rockcliffe in the past year and a half. The number is unusual, he says, but the incidents are not related.