Minister Vengu inspects construction of new helicopter hangar in Farka: A significant investment

Published: Monday, 27 January 2025 14:00

 

The newly introduced “Black Hawk” helicopters of the Albanian Air Force will soon have a modern home, equipped with all the facilities needed to carry out their missions effectively. Defense Minister Pirro Vengu, accompanied by the Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Ferdinand Dimo, and the Commander of the Farka Air Base, Colonel Ervin Buzi, visited the construction site of the new hangar, which will house the Black Hawk helicopters and their crews.

Minister Vengu described the new hangar as a critical investment in enhancing operational capabilities and readiness:
“This is a significant investment for the needs of our new squadron of Black Hawk pilots and technicians. For the first time, we will have an autonomous unit where all the requirements related to piloting and maintaining the Black Hawk helicopters will be met in a modern, dignified, and fully equipped environment.” - he stated.

Air Force Commander Brigadier General Ferdinand Dimo highlighted the importance of the investment and its role in improving the squadron's operational capacity:
“This is one of the model facilities at Farka Air Base, designed in collaboration with our strategic ally, the United States. The new hangar will provide everything needed for the Black Hawk squadron and their crews to fulfill their mission. The squadron is currently undergoing the necessary training to perform not only troop transport and medical evacuations but also engage in civil emergencies and search-and-rescue operations.” - he explained.

Colonel Ervin Buzi, Commander of Farka Air Base, informed the Minister that the Black Hawk squadron is also preparing for 24-hour readiness, training from sunrise to sunset, to ensure they can carry out night operations as well.

Once completed, the new hangar will enable Farka Air Base and the Air Force to conduct maintenance operations for the Black Hawk helicopters on-site. There are also plans to celebrate Aviation Day on April 24 in the new facility.

The new helicopter hangar at Farka Air Base is a 489.8 million lek investment, developed in collaboration with U.S. partners to ensure that technical specifications meet the highest standards.