In Baranavichy, the memory of pilot-heroes Andrei Nichyporchyk and Mikita Kukanenka was honored
A rally was held in Baranavichy on May 19 to commemorate pilots Andrei Nichyporchyk and Mikita Kukanenka, BelTA writes.
Five years ago, on May 19, 2021, a Yak-130 military aircraft of the Lida Assault Aviation Base crashed during a training flight. As it flew over Baranavichy, the aircraft's controls failed — the plane was falling directly onto a residential area.
According to instructions, the crew should have ejected, but the pilots made a different decision. Guards Major Andrei Nichyporchyk and Guards Lieutenant Mikita Kukanenka held the steering wheel until the last second, diverting the aircraft away from houses. Andrei Nichyporchyk was 33 years old, Mikita Kukanenka was only 22.
Relatives and friends of Andrei Nichyporchyk, flight personnel of the 116th Guards Assault Aviation Base and the 61st Fighter Aviation Base, as well as residents of Baranavichy, took part in the event today.
"On the one hand, time passes relentlessly fast. On the other hand, on May 19, 2021, time seemed to stop for us — relatives, friends, those who knew two young, energetic, optimistic guys. Many thanks to everyone for the memory," said Andrei Nichyporchyk's father, Vladimir Nichyporchyk.
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