Zelensky posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to pilot Andriy Pilshchikov (Dzhus)
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyi, posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to pilot Andrii Pilshchikov, known by the nickname Jus, who tragically died in the summer of 2023. This is stated in decree, published on the official website of the president.
Jus was awarded this highest state award for personal courage, heroism and selfless service demonstrated during the defense of the state sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. His dedication and professionalism became a symbol of the steadfast struggle for the country’s freedom.
Andrii Pilshchikov died on August 25, 2023, on the eve of the Aviation Day of Ukraine, when two L-39 combat training aircraft collided near the village of Singury in Zhytomyr Oblast. As a result of the plane crash, all three pilots died, including the well-known pilot of the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade — Jus.
The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is investigating the circumstances of this tragedy. Among the main versions, a technical malfunction of the aircraft, pilot errors or violations of the rules of flight organization are considered. In order to find out the causes of the accident in detail, an examination of the aircraft’s “black boxes” will be conducted.
Preliminary qualification of the event is carried out according to Art. 416 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine — violation of flight rules or preparation for them.
