Pilot who died in crash identified: 'He was larger than life'

The 45-year-old pilot who died last Friday after a small plane had crashed outside of Springbank Airport was the President of an aircraft brokerage company specializing in the brokering of small Piston Aircraft to Light Jets.

According to FlightSimple, Michael James Wilton, was originally from Swift Current, Saskatchewan, but lived in Calgary. He had, according to the company website, 1300 hours of flying experience with different types of aircraft and held a MIFR (Multi-Engine Instrument Rating) pilot holding both a Transport Canada and US FAA license. 

In a Facebook post on the company’s page, there was a message that read, “It is with heartfelt sadness we announce the passing of Michael James Wilton on April 23, 2022. He will be truly missed by everyone that had the opportunity to meet him. He was larger than life, a hero to his twin boys Tom and Will. He was well-loved for his courage, generosity and sense of humour. Mike was one of a kind, and irreplaceable.” 

On FlightSimple's website, it's stated that Wilton had, "...flown all over Canada, US and to Scotland, Michael has had the opportunity to see many great airports and meet many great people."

Last week, on Friday, Cochrane RCMP received a report of a plane crash with injuries. Cochrane RCMP, along with emergency medical services and fire services attended and located a small plane with two occupants. The plane had sustained damage to the wing and body. The 45-year-old male pilot was pronounced deceased at the scene and the 22-year-old female passenger was transported by ground ambulance to a Calgary hospital with serious life-threatening injuries.

Transportation Safety Board was notified and has taken carriage of the investigation.

A memorial will be held for Wilton June 3rd at The Hangar Flight. People are encouraged to donate to the Hangar Flight Mueseum.

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