Eleven new pilots will join the Air Force, Peleshi: An air fleet will be established with the best helicopters

Published: Wednesday, 07 September 2022 13:07

Eleven new pilots will join the Air Force after completing the Officer's Basic Course "Military Helicopter Pilot". At the graduation ceremony, the Defence Minister Niko Peleshi stated that, this is a proof of our Air Force growth and empowerment, part of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Albania.

“There are big challenges ahead in the AF, in terms of infrastructure and the increase of human capacities. FA is carrying out several historical projects. NATO's first tactical base, Kuçova Base is currently under construction and this is a historic development. Furthermore, it is accompanied by another historic moment concerning aircraft technology advancement. Next year, the air fleet made up of Black Hawk helicopters, will be set up. The first two helicopters will be delivered next year and it will be followed by others, until a real air fleet will be created with the best helicopters in the world. This is a successful cooperation with our most strategic and special partner, the USA, and I take the opportunity to thank them.”, - Minister Peleshi stressed during his speech.



The Defence Minister emphasized that some pilots have already been trained in the US for Black Hawk helicopters, training which will also be carried out by the corps of newly graduated pilots. Mr. Peleshi expressed his thanks to NATO allied countries that have contributed to the membership of the FA. "We are part of a large and powerful alliance, which is facing many new challenges in terms of defense security after Russia’s invasion and aggression in Ukraine. We have many tasks and objectives ahead. Thus, I wish you joint success, and the best possible achievements in these challenges. I wish you good work and all the best in your future career.", - the minister said in his speech.



There is also one female pilot, Armela Murati, among the ten new military pilots.
The graduation ceremony was attended by the Chief of the General Staff of the AF, Brigadier General Arben Kingji, Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Ylli Pulaj, military and attachés of NATO allied and partner countries.