Krishan Kant Saini

Wing Commander Krishan Kant Saini AVSM, VrC, VM
Born	(1931-10-26)26 October 1931
Died	14 October 2018(2018-10-14) (aged 86) New Delhi, India
Allegiance	India
Service / branch	Indian Air Force
Years of service	1953–1973
Rank	Wing Commander
Unit	104 Helicopter Squadron
Commands	104 Helicopter Squadron
Battles / wars	Sino-Indian War
Awards	Ati Vishisht Seva Medal Vir Chakra Vayu Sena Medal
Spouse(s)	Late,Prem Bhalla

Wing Commander Krishan Kant Saini, AVSM, VrC, VM (26 October 1931 – 14 October 2018) was an Indian Air Force helicopter pilot of 104 Squadron who set the world record in helicopter avionics by accomplishing the world's highest altitude helicopter landing. He attained this feat on 8 May 1969 when he landed a Cheetah helicopter at the altitude of 6858 m (22,500 feet) in the Karkoram ranges.^[citation needed]

Saini was also a distinguished officer of Indian Air Force, who was decorated for both gallantry and meritorious service. He won the prestigious Vir Chakra, the third highest award for gallantry in Indian Armed Forces, in 1962 Sino-Indian war when he carried out a dare-devil evacuation mission on his helicopter amidst hostile fire from many directions by the Chinese troops. Despite being hit by bullet and being temporarily blinded, he carried out his mission, winning himself a Vir Chakra in the process.[1][2] Wing Commander Saini also subsequently received Vayusena Medal for Gallantry and Ati Vishist Seva Medal for meritorius service.[3]

Later he was appointed Managing Director of Pawan Hans, where he brought to the attention of the Government issues with the quality of helicopters. [4]

Saini died on 14 October 2018, at the age of 86.[5]

Gallantry award citation

Wing Commander Saini's gallantry award citation reads as follows:[2]

"Flight Lieutenant Krishan Kant Saini had been operating in NEFA area since October, 1960. On 18th November, 1962, he, along with his co-pilot was evacuating seriously injured battle casualties in Walong area. He was instructed to land at a helipad close to the enemy line which was reported to be clear of enemy troops. When he was over the helipad, Chinese troops opened fire from many directions. His helicopter was hit at several places; the main reducter was damaged and oil from it gushed out in a thick spray which blinded him temporarily. His right ankle was also injured by a splinter and he was bleeding profusely. With great determination, presence of mind and skill, he dived the helicopter almost to ground level to avoid further damage from enemy fire. He thus saved the helicopter and the lives of his co-pilot and passengers. In spite of the damaged hydraulic system and the personal injury, he skilfully brought the aircraft back to base.

Flight Lieutenant Saini displayed courage, determination and professional skill of a high order."

References

1. Gazette of India, 11 January 1964 – No.3 – Pres/64 dated 1 January 1964
2. "Bharat Rakshak:Indian Air Force -". Archived from the original on 7 April 2024. Retrieved 20 January 2009.
3. Military Year-book, pp 362, Published by Guide Publications, 1971, Item notes: 1971, Original from the University of California, Digitized 18 January 2008
4. Singh, Raminder (29 October 2013). "Pawan Hans gets dubious distinction of being one of the most accident-prone helicopter operators in the world". No. 15 June 1989. India Today.
5. "Wing Commander Krishan Kant Saini". Bharat Rakshak. Retrieved 19 December 2023.