Mario Visintini | |
|---|---|
 c. 1936 | |
| Birth name | Mario Visentin |
| Nickname(s) | “cacciatore scientifico” |
| Born | 26 April 1913 Parenzo,Austria-Hungary |
| Died | 11 February 1941 (aged 27) Mount Bizen, Nefasit, Eritrea |
| Buried | Asmara, Eritrea |
| Allegiance | Italy |
| Service | Regia Aeronautica Aviazione Legionaria |
| Years of service | 1936 – 1941 |
| Rank | Capitano |
| Unit | 25ª Squadriglia of XVI° Gruppo "La Cucaracha", 413ª Squadriglia, 412ª Squadriglia |
| Battles / wars | Spanish Civil War World War II |
| Awards | Medaglia d'Oro al Valor Militare Medaglia di Bronzo al Valor Militare |
Mario Visintini, MOVM, (26 April 1913 – 11 February 1941) was an Italian military pilot, the first Regia Aeronautica flying ace of World War II. In recognition of his flying skill and meticulousness, Visintini was nicknamed cacciatore scientifico (scientific hunter).[1][2]
Visintini was the top-scoring pilot of all belligerent air forces in Eastern Africa (Africa Orientale)[3] and the top biplane fighter ace of World War II; he achieved all his air victories flying the Fiat CR.42 biplane.[4] He is credited with 16 confirmed air victories (20, according to other sources) and five probables, plus two victories achieved during the Spanish Civil War serving in the Aviazione Legionaria.[5][6]