TIRANA, April 30 /ATA/ Albania celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Military Aviation at the NATO air base in Kuçova.
Defence Minister Ermal Nufi spoke at the festive event on reopening of the Vlora Aviation School after twenty years, appreciating it a major investment re-establishing a crucial training hub for military and civilian pilots and air traffic controllers.
Further on, Nufi highlighted that upgrading current capabilities is a national security priority, with active efforts underway to enhance radar systems and reinforce air defense.
According to the minister, the revitalized Kuçova air base serves as a vital NATO tactical hub, strengthening regional security and elevating Albania’s strategic importance within the Alliance.
Minister of Defense Nufi honored the dedicated pilots, technicians, and specialists who have served the nation, paying tribute to their sacrifices throughout the history of the Air Force. This legacy began on April 24, 1951, marking the official inception of Albanian combat aviation with its first flight in national airspace.
Albanian aviation history was made when pilot Peço Polena took flight in a locally assembled Yak-9P. That same day marked the founding of the First Aviation Fighter Squadron. Commanded by Babaçe Faiku, the unit was based at Lapraka airfield (Tirana) and featured 12 Yak-9 aircraft.
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