Hero of the Soviet Union Gurgen Karapetyan, a test pilot of Mi helicopters, died at the age of 84. This is reported by TASS with reference to the message of the Russian Helicopters holding.
"The Russian Helicopters Holding of Rostec State Corporation expresses its deep condolences to the family and friends in connection with the death of Hero of the Soviet Union, Honored Test Pilot of the Soviet Union, Advisor to the General Director of the Russian Helicopters Holding on flight Safety Gurgen Rubenovich Karapetyan," the message reads.
In the period from 1962 to 1993, Karapetyan tested Mi-14, Mi-24, Mi-26, Mi-28 helicopters and others. Over the years, Karapetyan has mastered 39 types of helicopters, gliders and airplanes, and with modifications - more than 100. He also set 10 world aviation records for the speed and payload capacity of helicopters. In 1986, he took part in the liquidation of the consequences of the Chernobyl accident.
In 1991, Karapetyan was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Later, he was also awarded the medal of the Security Council of the Russian Federation "For Merits in ensuring national security".
Gennady Skhodnensky