Harrison Ford injured in plane crash at S. California golf course

VENICE, CA -- Actor Harrison Ford was confirmed as the pilot injured in a small crash at Penmar Golf Course in Venice on Thursday afternoon.

The single-engine plane reportedly crashed shortly before 2:30 p.m. onto the golf course, just west of the Santa Monica Municipal Airport, according to Federal Aviation Administration officials. The plane was returning to the airport after reporting engine trouble, a senior federal official said.

Los Angeles police said the plane made an emergency landing near Rose and Glenavon avenues.

Harrison's publicist issued the following statement Thursday:

"Harrison was flying a WW2 vintage plane today which had engine trouble upon take off. He had no other choice but to make an emergency landing, which he did safely. He was banged up and is in the hospital receiving medical care. The injuries sustained are not life threatening, and he is expected to make a full recovery."

Witness Elaine Miller said the plane appeared to be gliding in without noise and landed right side up. She ran up to the scene of the crash to help.

"He was able to speak. He expressed that he was in pain, which was no surprise," Miller said.

PHOTOS: Harrison Ford injured in Venice plane crash

Ford was taken to a hospital in fair to moderate condition, Los Angeles Fire Department Assistant Chief Patrick Butler said. No other injuries were reported.

"These generally turn out quite traumatic, but I can report that the patient left the scene conscious and breathing," Butler added.

The actor, known for "Blade Runner" and the "Indiana Jones" franchise, was cast to reprise his role as Han Solo in the new "Star Wars" trilogy, slated for release in December. He was known for his love for flying.

"I love the freedom of flight. I love the places you go. I love the people in aviation, the people that I meet in aviation. I love seeing the world from an airplane. I'm in love with flying," Ford told Barbara Walters in a 2008 interview.

Tap to watch a video of Ford flying a plane.

The National Transportation Safety Board was leading the investigation.

Drivers were urged to avoid the area.