The only survivor of a plane crash in North China which killed three people is now out of danger in hospital, officials said.

Shi Lei, head of the airborne remote sensing department under the Ministry of Land Resources, was critically injured in the accident, when the small plane crashed into a hillside in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Sunday. The other three people on board were killed.

The plane crashed about 75 km from the Linkes Bairin Banner government in Chifeng City at about 4:10 p.m., according to Lin Yuhua, head of the local public security bureau.

Shi was conscious despite head and chest injuries when he was pulled from the plane at 6:40 p.m. and rushed to hospital. He was transferred to Chifeng People's Hospital for better treatment on Monday.

Rescuers said the eight-seat plane, owned by China Flying Dragon Special Aviation Company, was on a mine exploring mission.

Initial investigation found the plane's engine was functional, although the control system failed. Further probing into the accident is being carried out.

(Xinhua News Agency June 19, 2008)