UPDATE: A pilot has sustained severe injuries following a dramatic ultralight plane crash in Escalante, Utah, just before 12:30 p.m. on Friday, October 6, 2023. This urgent incident occurred shortly after takeoff from the Escalante Airport, leaving the local community in shock.
According to Wade Mathews from the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, the pilot, who has not yet been identified, crashed the ultralight plane on the east end of the airport shortly after departure. The pilot suffered critical injuries, including fractures to both legs and one arm. Emergency responders quickly airlifted him to St. George Regional Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Authorities have confirmed that due to the nature of ultralight aircraft, which are not regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration, there will be no investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. This raises concerns about safety regulations surrounding these types of aircraft.
As of now, the pilot’s condition remains serious but details regarding his recovery have not been disclosed. As the community rallies around this incident, local officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The implications of this crash are significant for the ultralight flying community and raise questions about safety measures in place for non-Federal Aviation Administration-regulated aircraft.
