Black Hawk helicopters are flying with Albanian pilots at the controls

Published: Saturday, 06 July 2024 13:59

 

For the first time, Black Hawk UH-60A+ helicopters are flying with Albanian pilots at the controls. FA pilots, flight technicians, and maintenance personnel have been certified to perform their duties after completing the first phase of training with American instructors from the SATMO team.

Eight pilots and eight maintenance specialists are now qualified in roles such as line technicians, engine technicians, structure technicians, avionics technicians, and more. According to the contract, the American SATMO team will continue to enhance pilot skills with modules on troop transport, fast-rope, bambi bucket, crane, IFR, and NVG at night.

Lt. Col. Ervin Buzi has advanced operationally to conduct troop transport, including emergency management and instrument flight in challenging weather conditions. Major Klajdi Tushe has completed the emergency management and visual flight phase and will continue with the instrument flight phase.

In January, Albania received its first order of two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, financed with over 50 million dollars from US funds. These new helicopters will strengthen the capabilities of the Albanian Air Force, enabling them to conduct medical evacuations, personnel recovery, search and rescue missions, and support NATO's logistical operations and exercises.