News

Allied A330 MRTT arrives for delayed debut

Visitors to the NATO Days in Ostrava & Czech Air Force Days could see this aircraft over the Ostrava Airport in the past during the opening flypasts. This year, however, they will finally get to see it making its debut on a static display and theywill be able to see it up close.

This multi-purpose aircraft is part of the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF), a European project to strengthen air refuelling and transport capabilities. It is an important symbol of Czech membership in the North Atlantic Alliance, illustrating the possibilities of allied cooperation.

"The A-330 MRTT aircraft is an example of the successful international cooperation we are trying to present at our event. At the same time, it is an example of the Czech contribution to the strengthening of European security, as the Czech Republic is one of the seven countries participating in this project. We are therefore very pleased that visitors will be able to see it here," said Zbyněk Pavlačík, Chairman of Jagello 2000.

This premiere was supposed to take place at last year's NATO Days, but the event was cancelled due to the devastating floods. In addition, the crew, including Captain Petra Vobrová from the Czech Republic, planned to sell patches for a seriously ill little boy. Instead of selling the patches directly at the airport, they decided to hold the charity event remotely and donate the proceeds to those whose lives were changed by the natural disaster. "From the money collected from the sale of the patches, coordinator Vlaďka Marková purchased electrical appliances for the most affected households and personally delivered them. The money collected afterwards was used to buy gifts for the elderly and children, which were handed out during the meetings and Christmas party in Mikulovice," said Capt. Petra Vobrová. "The people in and around Mikulovice are not alone in this difficult situation."

"The initiative of the A330 MRTT crew, led by Captain Vobrová, shows that solidarity and mutual belonging have an irreplaceable place in our society. We greatly appreciate the fact that such a strong human story is hidden behind the aircraft, which is a symbol of international cooperation," said Zbyněk Pavlačík.

"It will take several years to repair such extensive damage. In spite of this, I would like to thank the family of little Jaroušek, who was originally the main one in this collection, for their understanding, and the people around them, thanks to whom Jaroušek already has his own electric tricycle. From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank all of you who have supported the collection and the Jagello 2000 Association for all the support. We hope that we will finally meet in Ostrava this year in person," added Capt. Vobrová.

The A330 MRTT, or Multi Role Tanker Transport, is a modern multirole aircraft designed for transporting passengers, cargo, and in-flight refuelling. The aircraft belonging to the MMF operate primarily from a base in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, but also have a forward base in Cologne, where they maintain a permanent MEDEVAC readiness. It can accommodate up to 266 passengers and carry more than 110 tonnes of fuel. This is an important element of European defence cooperation, whether it is strategic transport of material or support to air operations. In addition to the Czech Republic, Germany, Belgium, Norway, the Netherlands and Luxembourg are participating in the IMF project.

See you at
the NATO Days in Ostrava
& Czech Air Force Days!