Chinese test pilot who landed plane safely after cabin leak given first-class merit award

A veteran Chinese naval test pilot has been honored with a first-class merit award for defense science and technology after successfully landing a plane experiencing a critical cabin leak. The pilot, identified as Yang, was recognized by President Xi Jinping for his bravery and skill during the life-threatening incident.

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If the aircraft does not descend, the cabin pressure will completely dissipate. If the pilot becomes incapacitated, the aircraft will lose control and [the situation will] become uncontrollable.

Featured in a recent state broadcaster CCTV documentary, Yang recounted the harrowing experience where his aircraft lost cabin pressure at an altitude of 10,000 meters (33,000 feet). He explained the severe consequences of not descending immediately: "If the aircraft does not descend, the cabin pressure will completely dissipate. If the pilot becomes incapacitated, the aircraft will lose control and [the situation will] become uncontrollable."

However, Yang faced a critical dilemma. He could not initiate an immediate descent because a civilian flight path lay directly beneath his aircraft. This forced him to maintain his dangerous altitude for 13 minutes until he could safely change course. "My physical sensations were getting worse, but unless instructed otherwise, we had to maintain our current altitude," he stated.

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My physical sensations were getting worse, but unless instructed otherwise, we had to maintain our current altitude.

Upon finally descending, Yang reported that his physical sensations gradually improved, including the return of his hearing. His actions ensured the safety of the aircraft and any potential civilian flights below, demonstrating exceptional composure and adherence to protocol under extreme duress.

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As I descended, my physical sensations gradually returned, including my hearing.