RI pilot dies in Turkey

Wed, 10 Sep 1997 | Source: REUTERS

ANKARA (Reuter): The Indonesian pilot of a microlight aircraft due to compete in the World Air Games died when the craft crashed during a practice session in western Turkey, the games' organizing committee said yesterday.

Sumanto Soemitro was conducting a test-flight near the town of Aydin Monday when the aircraft suddenly plunged toward the ground from an altitude of between 180 and 240 meters.

Competitors from more than 55 countries will compete in the games, organized by the International Aeronautical Federation, in sports such as ballooning, gliding, parachuting, hang gliding and microlighting held at various locations across Turkey.

The one-week games, being held for the first time, will be officially opened Saturday. A microlight plane is similar to a hang glider but powered by a small engine.

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