The Bolivian Air Force has taken delivery of two Robinson R44 helicopters, and are expecting a further four by the end of 2011. Carrying serials FAB-760 and FAB-761, the pair are based at Chimoré and operated by the newly-formed Air Group 22. They will offer a significantly cheaper training cost to the South American country, which previously carried out ab initio training on turbine helicopters, and frequently relied on out-of-country options.

An inauguration ceremony for Air Training Group 22 was attended by the State President, Evo Morales, the Minister of Defense and the Military High Command.  THe first intake for the new flying school will see eight Bolivian officers and two Venezuelans learning to fly, showing from the start that Bolivia intends foreign nationals to have access as well.

The commander of the Bolivian Air Force, General Tito Gandarillas explained that the acquisition time to determine the aircraft was desirable to establish a pilot school will be the basis for officers and cadets of the Military Aviation School receive instruction in helicopters and forming part of the new plans that have FAB to modernize.

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com