Pilot Killed after Glider Crashes Near Diamond Valley

A glider pilot has been killed while competing at a national championship event near Diamond Valley on Wednesday.

The pilot, 65, was reportedly a member of the Alberta Gliding Community. According to RCMP, the crash was reported around 1:30pm.

The crash happened in the south of Highway 7 between Diamond Valley and Okotoks. The glider crashed into a field in the area. The incident happened during the National Soaring Championships, which is a two-week even hosted at the Cu Nim Gliding Club, east of Diamond Valley.

The Cu Nim Gliding Club, confirmed the death of a “respected member” of the organization a statement. “The lost pilot was an accomplished glider pilot, an active and reliable glider flight instructor, a regular participant in competitions, and a long-serving former president of the gliding club”, read the statement.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to all those who knew and admired this remarkable individual. Their passion for flight and their contributions to our club and the gliding community will always be remembered and celebrated”, the club said.

The RCMP and the Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, the rest of the competition may be canceled.

In a joint statement, the president of the Cu Nim Gliding Club, and Christopher Gough, the club’s chief flying instructor, said “out of respect for the ongoing investigation by the Transportation Safety Board, and for the family of the deceased we ask for privacy during this difficult time for the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this loss.”

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