Two Pilots Killed in Su-24M Crash in Ukraine’s Khmelnytskyi Region
Su-24M Bomber Crash Claims Two Lives
According to Главком: On June 16, a Su-24M bomber went down in the Khmelnytskyi region, killing both crew members: Major Bohdan Zaborulko, a test pilot for Antonov, and Senior Lieutenant Bohdan Babenko. The accident occurred around 7:00 PM in the Shepetivka district, involving an aircraft from the Petro Franko 7th Tactical Aviation Brigade.
Remembering Bohdan Zaborulko
Bohdan Zaborulko was a highly respected aviator with decades of experience. He participated in testing Antonov aircraft, serving as co-pilot during the maiden flight of the An-132D. In 2021, he also acted as co-pilot on the legendary An-225 Mriya during a flight marking the 30th anniversary of Ukraine's independence.
“We will remember Bohdan Zaborulko as a talented pilot, a reliable colleague, and a person of great dignity and dedication to his work. Our sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, friends, and comrades. Eternal memory. Eternal flight...” – Antonov Company
Since February 25, 2022, Zaborulko had served in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. A pre-trial investigation has been launched under Article 416, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (violation of flight rules or preparation for them). This tragedy represents a profound loss for Ukraine's aviation community and its armed forces.
The crash highlights the extreme dangers military pilots face during combat operations. Losing seasoned aviators like Bohdan Zaborulko deals a heavy blow not only to their families but to the entire Ukrainian aviation sector. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the cause of the disaster and may lead to improved flight safety protocols going forward.
The tragic crash of the Su-24M not only resulted in the loss of two skilled pilots but also underscores the inherent risks faced by military aviators. For more insights into the circumstances surrounding this incident and its implications for aviation safety in Ukraine, you can read more about the details of the crash here.
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