English: The 220TH Airlift Wing celebrated another momentous Milestone as they finally received the new NC212i Aircraft with Tail Numbers 2119 and 2120 to its Home Base. The arrival of said Aircraft brought gladness and gratefulness to the Men and Women of the Airlifters’ Family as they finally witnessed a tangible Result of Dreams turning into Reality. The said Aircraft were initially received by the PAF at Antonio Bautista Air Base, Palawan last June 11, 2018, and at Clark Air Base last June 14, 2018, respectively. After completing all necessary Requirements, the Air Assets were safely turned-over at Brigadier General Benito N Ebuen Air Base (BGBNEAB), Mactan on August 21, 2018.

The said Activity was graced by the new Commander of Air Mobility Command BGEN ALEJANDRO A BACLAYON AFP, who stated that the 220th AW has multiple Platforms in their Unit and that the Airlifters must work hard and exert more effort to the Service to ensure the safe and successful achievement of their Mission. He was joined by the Unit Commanders, Officers and Enlisted Personnel of Mactan Air Base in the said activity.

The Wing Commander of 220th Airlift Wing, BGEN STEPHEN P PARREÑO AFP, also expressed his utmost gratitude to the Pilots and Crew, the Technical Working Group, and all Committees that have been involved in making the dream come into reality. He also stated that the new Aircraft is a big boost to the capability of the Airlifters’ Family in accomplishing given any Mission by higher Headquarters. He also urged all Personnel to hit the Ground running and make sure to implement the new Platform in the three (3) Year Plan capability and ensure that said Air Assets are maintained and sustained for the demands of Air Operations.

The acquisition of the NC212i is Part of the PAF’s Modernization Program aimed at enhancing the PAF’s Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) and security efforts being a new Model Aircraft that can carry 28 Passengers equipped with Digital Avionics and next-generation Navigation and Communication Systems, as well as cheaper operational cost. Further, the said Aircraft is capable of taking off and landing on an unpaved Runway.