Atlin –A pilot escaped injury last Thursday at approximately 12:25 PM when a small Ultra-Light aircraft crashed immediately after takeoff in a remote area south of Atlin B.C.

 

The pilot and sole occupant, 69 year old Charlie Russell was en route from Telegraph Creek to Whitehorse and had landed safely on a small clearing to re-fuel but on take-off a gust of wind pushed his aircraft sideways and Russell was able to maintain enough control to steer between trees and avoid any injuries.

 

Russell, a wildlife biologist,  and 20 year pilot was able to communicate his position and situation to a friend who then notified authorities.