AGUA CALIENTE, Calif.—The pilot of a light plane that flipped over Jan. 12 at the end of a runway at a small airport in an eastern San Diego County desert community was able to walk away from the accident, apparently unscathed.

The aviation accident at Agua Caliente Springs Airport was reported about 11:45 a.m., according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

By the time emergency crews arrived a short time later, the pilot had left the area, Cal Fire Capt. Thomas Shoots said.

State parks personnel reported that the pilot had contacted them and said he was unhurt before leaving the area, Lt. Nanette McMasters said.

It was unclear why the man decided not to remain at the scene of the crash.