China
11:49, 26-Apr-2018
US pilot dies in plane crash before Zhengzhou Airshow
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Eglin Wells, an American aerobatic pilot and career musician, died in an airshow test flight on Wednesday in Zhengzhou, capital of central China’s Henan Province.
According to local media, Wells flew his self-made aircraft named the "Starjammer," which is outfitted with LEDs and a sound system, to an altitude of about 100 meters above the Shangjie Airport before crashing. The rescue work began immediately after the crash. There were no other casualties reported on the ground.
An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway.
Airshow organizers pay tribute to Eglin Wells in a press conference on April 26, 2018. /CGTN Photo
Airshow organizers pay tribute to Eglin Wells in a press conference on April 26, 2018. /CGTN Photo
Wells was a member of the "Red Eagle" aerobatic flight team and was joined by two other crew members in Zhengzhou.
The airshow organizers said the event will proceed as planned but the deceased pilot will be honored in the sincerest manner.
The Zhengzhou Airshow 2018 and World Formation Aerobatic Annual Awards Ceremony will feature eight other aerobatic teams from across the globe. The event will be held from April 27 to May 1.