75th Anniversary of the Albanian Air Force marked, Ermal Nufi: Aviation School to reopen in Vlorë after two decades

Published: Monday, 04 May 2026 12:37

The 75th Anniversary of the Establishment of Albanian Military Aviation was commemorated at the NATO Tactical Air Base in Kuçovë Air Base.

The ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj, Defence Minister Ermal Nufi, Minister of Interial Affairs Besfort Lamallari, Minister of State for Local Government  Ervin Demo, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, senior representatives of the Armed Forces, members of the Aviation Veterans Association, and families of fallen servicemembers.

In his address, President Begaj emphasised that the transformation of the Air Force has been made possible through the sustained support of Allies, with particular reference to the strategic partnership with the United States of America. He described the Air Force modernisation plan as both ambitious and necessary, highlighting key investments in the helicopter fleet, ground-based air defence (GBAD) capabilities, unmanned aerial systems, integrated air surveillance, and the transformation of Kuçova into a NATO Tactical Air Base.

Defence Minister Nufi underlined the reopening of the Aviation School in Vlorë as a strategic investment, aimed at ensuring the preparation of future generations of military and civilian pilots, as well as air traffic controllers, while preserving the country’s aviation tradition.

He further noted that the modernisation of existing capabilities remains a strategic priority directly linked to national security, with ongoing efforts focused on enhancing radar systems and strengthening air defence. The Kuçova Air Base was highlighted as a key strategic asset, contributing to Albania’s role within NATO and to regional security.

During the ceremony, tribute was paid to the generations of pilots, technicians, and specialists who have contributed with dedication and sacrifice to the development of Albanian Military Aviation, including those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The origins of Albanian Military Aviation date back to 24 April 1951, when the first flight was conducted in the airspace of the Republic of Albania. On that occasion, pilot Peço Polena carried out the inaugural flight with a Yak-9P aircraft assembled by Albanian specialists.

On the same day, the First Fighter Aviation Squadron was established under the command of pilot Babaçe Faiku, equipped with 12 Yak-9 aircraft and based at the Lapraka airfield in Tirana.