Srinagar, August 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian Army Aviation pilots successfully carried out a high-altitude casualty evacuation at 18,600 feet near the Nun Kun massif, overcoming strong winds, steep terrain and a rapidly closing daylight window to rescue a person stranded on a mountain slope.
The demanding operation was conducted under extremely difficult conditions, where the thin air at such altitude reduces both engine performance and rotor lift. To maximise the helicopter’s available lift capacity, the crew removed all non-essential equipment before beginning the mission.
The aircraft was also operated with strictly limited fuel, while retaining sufficient range to reach the remote location, evacuate the casualty and return safely.
The Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army said in a post on X late Saturday that the pilots conducted the rescue from an extremely challenging slope where there was no landing space.
The helicopter was lightened by removing non-essential equipment and carrying limited fuel. The pilots ultimately executed a critical landing with one skid touching the mountain slope amid strong winds.
The mission was undertaken during the last available landing window of the day as daylight rapidly faded at the high-altitude location.
After reaching the casualty, the crew encountered powerful mountain winds and a steep slope that offered no suitable space for a conventional landing. The pilots maintained a low hover while precisely balancing the helicopter, with one skid touching the slope to stabilise the aircraft.
The crew then quickly secured the casualty before the helicopter safely departed the hazardous location and descended to a safer altitude.
The Fire and Fury Corps described the operation as a testament to the skill, courage and determination of Indian Army Aviation personnel.
The successful evacuation highlighted the operational preparedness and technical expertise of Army aviation crews undertaking life-saving missions in some of the most demanding mountain environments.
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