Penticton search and rescue comes to the aid of crashed hang glider pilot

PENTICTON – Penticton Search and Rescue were called to the aid of an injured hang glider yesterday.

Search and rescue spokesperson Steve Brown said in a press release issued yesterday evening the team’s helicopter rescue unit and two ground crews were dispatched to Pincushion Mountain near Peachland shortly after 12:30 p.m. yesterday, Jan. 15 after a hang glider reportedly crashed on the mountain.

The pilot, described as a young woman, had crashed shortly after takeoff and was suffering from lower leg injuries that required immediate medical attention and evacuation.

The woman was able to maintain contact with rescue crews and the search and rescue’s helicopter external transport team lowered rescuers to the woman, where she was treated and then airlifted to a waiting B.C. Ambulance crew.

She was then transported to Kelowna General Hospital.

Search and Rescue manager Kelvin Hall advised backcountry enthusiasts to pack such items as GPS, as well as to ensure others are aware of their backcountry plans.

“Although we sound like a broken record, proper trip planning is essential no matter what you do- as no one plans to have an event or emergency when enjoying recreational activities,” he says.

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