Pilot Seriously Injured

Pilot Seriously Injured After Light Aircraft Crashes at North Yorkshire Sculpture Park

A pilot in his 20s is in a serious condition after a light aircraft crashed in North Yorkshire.

Emergency services were called to the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, near Masham, at around 12.21pm on Wednesday, 18 February. The park was closed to the public at the time.

The aircraft came down within the grounds of the popular attraction in Grewelthorpe. No members of the public were injured.

Airlifted to Leeds Hospital

North Yorkshire Police confirmed the pilot was the only person on board. He was freed from the wreckage by emergency crews before being airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary.

As of 20 February, he remains in hospital in a serious condition.

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance said its Topcliffe-based crew was first on scene. After treatment at the crash site, the casualty was flown directly to Leeds for specialist care.

The Yorkshire Ambulance Service also dispatched an ambulance and a team leader to assist, alongside fire crews from Leyburn, Thirsk and Ripon.

Aircraft Reportedly Experienced Engine Problems

Unofficial reports suggest the plane was a Cessna 150H, registration G-BBDT, believed to be operated by Sherburn Aero Club. It is understood the aircraft may have encountered engine trouble before coming down, although this has not been formally confirmed.

Investigation Launched

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has launched a full investigation.

A spokesperson said a multi-disciplinary team, including specialists in aircraft operations, engineering and flight data, has been deployed to gather evidence and establish the cause of the crash.

A police cordon remains in place while enquiries continue.

North Yorkshire Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the aircraft in flight or has video footage to contact them on 101,