URGENT UPDATE: A pilot has sustained severe injuries following a dramatic ultralight plane crash in Escalante, Utah, earlier today. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m., shortly after the pilot took off from the Escalante Airport.
Authorities from the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office report that the crash took place on the east end of the airport. Eyewitnesses described the scene as alarming, highlighting the quick response needed to assist the injured pilot.
The pilot suffered multiple injuries, including fractures to both legs and one arm. Emergency services swiftly airlifted him to St. George Regional Hospital for urgent medical treatment. As of now, the identity of the pilot has not been released, pending notification of family.
Notably, ultralight aircraft are not regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which means that there will not be an investigation conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) into the crash.
This incident raises concerns about safety regulations surrounding ultralight aviation, particularly as such craft often operate outside typical oversight protocols.
Authorities are urging all ultralight pilots to exercise heightened caution to prevent future accidents.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
