On August 16th, the first flight of a UH-60 helicopter of the Portuguese Air Force took place at Enterprise Municipal Airport in Alabama.

The flight carried out with a crew from Arista Aviation Services (AAS), lasted approximately 30 minutes and marked the first flight after the lengthy and complex process of refurbishment and modernization of the helicopter. This flight confirmed the proper functioning of its main systems.

Subsequent test flights will be conducted to assess all systems and equipment of the helicopter, ensuring its airworthiness. These tests will precede the acceptance process, scheduled for the month of September.

This aircraft, with tail number 29801, is the first of six UH-60 helicopters acquired by the Portuguese Air Force from AAS, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan. The acquisition aims to provide Portugal with its own means to combat rural fires.

The second helicopter, with tail number 29802, is in the final stages of modification and is scheduled for its first flight in early September.

Source: Portuguese Air Force