For the first time, Albanian pilots are flying Black Hawk UH-60A+ helicopters. The Albanian Armed Forces pilots, flight technicians and maintenance personnel were certified by the American instructors of the SATMO team at the end of the first phase of training.

Eight pilots and eight maintenance specialists are qualified in the profiles of line technician, engine technician, structure technician, avionics technician, etc.

According to the contract, the American SATMO team will develop the pilots’ skills in troop transport, fast rope, bambi bucket, crane, IFR and NVG modules at night.

Lieutenant Colonel Ervin Buzi has completed the operational training for troop transport, including emergency management and instrument flight in difficult meteorological conditions. Major Klajdi Tushe has completed the emergency management and visual flight phases and will continue with instrument flight.

The first two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters arrived in Albania in January of this yera, as the first order from our country, supported by more than $50 million from US aid funds. The new helicopters will help strengthen the Albanian Air Force’s capabilities and ability to conduct medical evacuation, personnel recovery, search and rescue missions, as well as support NATO logistical movements for operations and training.