The Aviatic Stunt of June 4, 1965: Valentin Privalov’s Daring Feat in Novosibirsk
On June 4, 1965, Novosibirsk became the backdrop for an extraordinary aviation feat as Soviet ace pilot Valentin Privalov performed a daring stunt by flying his MiG-17 military jet under the October Bridge across the Ob River. This remarkable display of skill captivated thousands of onlookers and remains a notable event in aviation history.
Historical Context
The 1960s in the Soviet Union were a period of rapid technological advancements and public spectacles. The Cold War era spurred intense competition and innovation, particularly in aviation and space exploration. For Valentin Privalov, whose childhood was marred by the German invasion of the Soviet Union, the sight of military aircraft had ignited a lifelong passion. By the mid-1960s, he had become an accomplished pilot, experienced in flying over water from his service in the Baltic, and was stationed in Novosibirsk.
The Stunt
On that fateful summer day, Novosibirsk’s beach and river embankment were crowded when Privalov's aircraft appeared overhead, drawing the attention of all present. As he approached the October Bridge, the crowd held its breath, fearing disaster. Privalov expertly maneuvered his MiG-17 under the bridge, choosing an arch 30 meters high and 120 meters wide. Flying just a meter above the water at a speed of 700 km/h, he executed the stunt with precision, showcasing both his exceptional flying skills and his deep understanding of his aircraft’s capabilities.
The stunt was witnessed by thousands, and despite the dramatic nature of the performance, it was undeniably real. Privalov’s calm demeanor and precise execution of the maneuver were praised by those who observed it firsthand.
Repercussions and Legacy
Following the stunt, all four pilots involved were detained for investigation. Privalov was summoned to face Air Marshal Eugene Savitsky, who reprimanded him for the stunt. Nevertheless, rather than facing severe punishment, Privalov was only given a verbal warning and a brief period of rest, reflecting the high regard in which his audacity and skill were held.
The stunt was further popularized by a photograph depicting the jet in an apparently impossible position relative to the bridge. This image, while widely circulated, was later revealed to be a fake with distorted proportions and unrealistic angles, created either for a museum or newspaper. However, this does not detract from the reality of Privalov’s stunt, which was indeed performed and witnessed by many.
Today, Valentin Privalov’s flight under the October Bridge stands as a symbol of Soviet aviation prowess and the bold, adventurous spirit of the era. The event remains celebrated for its audacity and technical achievement, despite the controversies surrounding the fabricated photograph.