Indian Army Aviation pilots performed a daring 18,600-foot rescue operation near the Nun Kun massif on Saturday, evacuating a casualty from a steep mountain slope despite strong winds and difficult terrain.

The rescue was conducted under extremely challenging conditions, with the crew facing a narrow window to complete the rescue before darkness hit. The high altitude made flying difficult for the pilots, with reduced atmospheric density affecting engine performance and rotor lift, according to an ANI report.

Challenging Conditions

To maximise the helicopter’s lifting capability, the pilots removed all non-essential equipment and carried only limited fuel, while retaining enough range to complete the evacuation. When the helicopter reached the casualty’s location, the crew found no conventional landing spot on the steep slope. Strong mountain winds further increased the risks.

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According to the news agency, ANI added, the pilots then held the helicopter in a low hover and carried out a critical manoeuvre, keeping the aircraft stable with one skid touching the mountain slope. The patient was quickly secured inside the helicopter before the crew lifted off and safely descended.

Critical Manoeuvre

According to the news agency, the pilots then held the helicopter in a low hover and carried out a critical manoeuvre, keeping the aircraft stable with one skid touching the mountain slope.

The patient was quickly secured inside the helicopter before the crew lifted off and safely descended, it added.