Office of Public Affairs
13th Coast Guard District

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News Release

Date: Oct. 5, 2009
Contact: Public Affairs Det. Astoria
(503) 861-6235
Mike Fergus
FAA spokesperson
 (425) 227-1203

Coast Guard rescues pilot from downed aircraft

ASTORIA, Ore. — A Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, Ore., rescue helicopter crew located and rescued the pilot of an aircraft that crashed approximately five miles west of St. Helens, Ore., Monday.

Coast Guard Sector Portland, Ore., received a call from Columbia County, Ore., Dispatch after they were notified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that a single engine experimental aircraft bound for Scappoose Airpark, Ore., had lost communications during its approach for landing.

Coast Guard Air Station Astoria launched an MH-60 Jayhawk rescue helicopter crew to search for the missing aircraft using the last known position provided by the FAA.  The rescue helicopter crew was able to find the aircraft using its emergency locator beacon. 

A Coast Guard rescue swimmer was lowered and was able to locate the plane's wreckage and the pilot.  The rescue helicopter crew transported the pilot to a waiting Life Flight medical crew who airlifted him to Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland to be treated for extensive injuries.  His condition is unknown at this time.

For questions related to the investigation of the accident contact Mike Fergus, FAA spokesperson, at (425) 227-1203.  For questions regarding the rescue of the pilot contact Petty Officer 3rd Class Kelly Parker at (503) 861-6235.

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