Helimer 203 Crew Receives the 2026 Ángeles, Eugenia and Jorge Piretti Award
On 20 February 2026, coinciding with the International Day of Air Crash Victims and Their Families, the Air Safety Foundation presented the second edition of the Ángeles, Eugenia and Jorge Piretti Award at Madrid’s historic Zurbano Palace. The award recognizes individuals and organizations whose commitment, professionalism, and dedication contribute to saving lives and improving safety.
This year’s award was presented to the four members of the Helimer 203 rescue helicopter crew:
- Francisco Javier Lozano, Captain
- Rodrigo Nieto, Co-pilot
- Guillermo Peñuelas, Hoist Operator
- Raúl Ares, Rescue Swimmer
The crew was recognized for its outstanding rescue operations during the catastrophic flooding that struck the Valencia region on 29 October 2024. Working throughout the night in extreme weather conditions, strong winds, near-zero visibility and rapidly rising waters, they carried out multiple life-saving rescues in circumstances that demanded exceptional skill, teamwork and courage.
Remembering the Foundation’s Founder
Opening the ceremony, Foundation President, Pilar Vera, paid tribute to Ángeles Piretti León, whose vision and support were instrumental in establishing the Foundation and whose name, together with those of Eugenia and Jorge Piretti, gives the award its identity. The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting aviation safety, supporting safety education and fostering collaboration among public institutions, industry stakeholders and safety professionals.
A Powerful Testimony of Rescue and Survival
One of the highlights of the event was a round-table discussion moderated by Foundation Trustee Eduardo Gavilán. Joining the Helimer 203 crew was flood survivor José Fernández Sánchez, who was rescued with his son during the disaster.
Through their testimonies, attendees gained first-hand insight into the operational challenges of conducting helicopter rescue missions during a large-scale emergency. The discussion illustrated not only the technical complexity of the operation but also its profound human dimension.
The crew described the difficult decisions they faced throughout the night, including navigating flooded areas, identifying people in immediate danger, and carrying out precision rescues in an environment where every minute mattered.
Recognizing Professional Excellence
During the award presentation, Pilar Vera highlighted the crew’s professionalism, commitment to safety and dedication to public service. She emphasized that aviation safety depends on highly trained professionals who often work outside the public spotlight yet play a critical role when emergencies occur.
The Foundation also stressed the importance of learning from major emergencies and disasters, improving institutional preparedness, and strengthening training and emergency exercises to better protect citizens in the future.
Award Ceremony
From left to right: Rodrigo Nieto, Javier Lozano, Guillermo Peñuelas y Raúl Ares, holding the framed diplomas and the award sculpture.
A Collective Recognition
Accepting the award on behalf of the crew, Captain Francisco Javier Lozano dedicated the recognition to all rescue crews who remain on duty every day of the year. He reflected on the importance of safety culture, continuous training and teamwork, noting that the successful outcome of the Helimer 203 mission was the result of years of preparation, mutual trust and operational experience.
He also emphasized a principle shared by rescue professionals everywhere: every mission must be conducted safely, with the ultimate goal that both those being rescued and those carrying out the rescue return home safely.
Looking Ahead
The ceremony concluded with an official group photograph and a reception that allowed guests, aviation professionals, public officials and family members to continue sharing experiences and reflections in an atmosphere of recognition and appreciation.
Through this award, the Air Asafety Foundation continues to honour individuals whose actions exemplify the values of safety, professionalism, dedication and service to society.
Pictures
The Air Safety Foundation would like to thank the following public authorities for their support in awarding a grant for this and other activities.
