Heroic Rescue Mission of Pilot in South Sudan Under Gunfire

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a veteran helicopter pilot, faced a life-threatening ordeal during a UN rescue mission in South Sudan. A routine operation to evacuate soldiers escalated when gunfire erupted, resulting in casualties and injuries among the crew. Despite sustaining a gunshot wound, Muzyka successfully piloted the damaged helicopter to safety. The crew was later honored for their bravery, while Muzyka reflects on the loss of a colleague and hopes for peace.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a seasoned helicopter pilot, found himself in a perilous situation recently while on a United Nations mission in South Sudan. At the age of 60 and with 43 years of piloting experience, he was tasked with a routine operation to evacuate wounded soldiers from Nasir. Unfortunately, what started as a standard mission turned into a life-threatening ordeal marked by gunfire.

Having served in the Soviet army and later in various conflict zones, including Afghanistan, Captain Muzyka’s rich history in aviation did not prepare him for the unexpected peril encountered in South Sudan. During this critical mission, a shoot-out erupted at the military base, resulting in casualties among both South Sudanese soldiers and his crew member. Despite being injured himself, Captain Muzyka was able to navigate his damaged helicopter to safety.

At the onset of the attack, Captain Muzyka sustained a gunshot wound to his arm. His co-pilot and flight engineer also sustained injuries amidst the chaos. Despite the damage to the aircraft and the critical situation, Captain Muzyka skillfully piloted the helicopter away from danger, maintaining a low altitude to avoid further fire while en route to Malakal airport.

En route, he and his crew faced multiple challenges, including mechanical issues and the need for rapid flight maneuvers to ensure a quick escape. The urgency of the situation escalated as they encountered obstacles during their descent into Malakal with the aircraft riddled with bullet holes. Mirroring the intensity of cinematic thrillers, his experience was surreal yet grounded in reality.

After safely landing, the crew and the soldiers on board received immediate medical attention. Tragically, Captain Muzyka’s flight attendant succumbed to his injuries during the ordeal. Following the heroics, the crew was honored with a UN medal, highlighting the bravery displayed during the attack, which the UN deemed potentially a war crime under international law.

Captain Muzyka has since returned to Ukraine for medical treatment and to reunite with family, reflecting on the incident and lamenting the loss of his colleague. He remains hopeful for future peace, stating his desire for “common sense to prevail in the world.” Although retirement looms, his passion for flying endures, leaving an indelible impact on this harrowing mission in South Sudan.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka’s recent mission in South Sudan exemplifies the perilous realities faced by those in conflict zones. Despite sustained injuries, the captain’s remarkable skills enabled him to safely land his damaged helicopter while protecting his crew and passengers. The tragedy of losing a team member amidst this chaos remains a heavy weight on the crew. While Captain Muzyka contemplates retirement, his enduring dedication to aviation and hope for global peace shines through.

Original Source: www.bbc.com