Famed bush pilot and former star of the Discovery Channel series “Flying Wild Alaska,” Jim Tweto, died in a plane crash on Friday, June 15, along with his passenger.
Eyewitnesses reported that Tweto’s Cessna 180 faced challenges in achieving the necessary altitude during take-off, ultimately resulting in the catastrophic crash. The plane’s satellite equipment transmitted an SOS signal, identifying the crash site as 35 miles northeast of Shaktoolik, Alaska.
Alaskan authorities discovered the remains of Tweto and his passenger, Shane Reynolds, at the crash location. Ariel Tweto, Jim’s daughter, delivered the sorrowful news of the demise of her father and Reynolds on Instagram. She expressed, “My dad and a wonderful hunting guide and friend of our family passed away this afternoon.”
The Tweto family rose to fame through their feature in the Discovery Channel series “Flying Wild Alaska.” Running for three seasons from 2011, the series chronicled their small-scale airline business in Unalakleet, emphasizing the risks and difficulties of bush flying in Alaska, including daring airdrops and takeoffs.
The National Transportation Safety Board is presently conducting an investigation into the fatal accident.Tweto, who moved to Alaska originally to play hockey for the University of Alaska Anchorage, discovered his affinity for flying, leading to the establishment of his own aviation company.
Shane Reynolds leaves behind his wife, Gina, and their daughter in Idaho.
