The pilot who famously rescued Beck Weathers from the slopes of Mount Everest was Colonel Madan.
The Heroic Rescue
Colonel Madan, a courageous Nepalese Army helicopter pilot, volunteered for the perilous mission to rescue American climber Beck Weathers. Weathers had been left for dead during the disastrous 1996 Everest climbing season. Colonel Madan's extraordinary efforts were pivotal in saving not only Beck Weathers but also Taiwanese climber Makalu Gau.
Key details of this remarkable rescue operation include:
- Pilot: Colonel Madan
- Affiliation: Nepalese Army
- Individuals Rescued: Beck Weathers (American) and Makalu Gau (Taiwanese)
- Rescue Location: Camp I on Mount Everest
- Helicopter Used: An Ecuriel AS350 B2 helicopter
A Historic Feat
This particular rescue mission stands out significantly in the annals of mountaineering history. It was recognized as the highest Himalayan helicopter rescue ever recorded, demonstrating unparalleled skill and bravery under extreme conditions. The successful operation showcased the robust capabilities of the Ecuriel AS350 B2 helicopter and the intrepid nature of Colonel Madan, who navigated treacherous mountain air at an unprecedented altitude to save lives.
The following table summarizes the key aspects of this historic rescue:
| Aspect of Rescue | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pilot | Colonel Madan |
| Affiliation | Nepalese Army |
| Rescued | Beck Weathers, Makalu Gau |
| Location | Camp I (Mount Everest) |
| Helicopter | Ecuriel AS350 B2 |
| Significance | Highest Himalayan helicopter rescue |
