A Day with the Portuguese Air Force: Open Day at Air Base No.8
As has become usual over the last few years, and as part of the celebrations for the 72nd Anniversary of the Portuguese Air Force, the bases on national territory and in the archipelagos opened their doors to the public, letting people know about the units there and their missions. The most recent Air Base was no exception, and July 14 was chosen for the occasion.
Although the base itself isn't new, Air Base No. 8 was established relatively recently. Formerly known as Aeródromo de Manobra Nº1, this base located in Maceda, Ovar, became an air base on November 24, 2023. It also shares the date with the reactivation of 551 Squadron - “Panteras”, which operate the Air Force's latest helicopter, the UH-60 Blackhawk, and which became the first Flight Squadron assigned to AB No.8.
This base continues to have a permanent detachment of 552 Squadron - “Zangões”, which operates the AW 119 Koala helicopter and is responsible for ensuring Search and Rescue on the coast and in remote areas.
Upon the arrival of the more than 30,000 visitors, who weren't deterred by the gray skies, they were greeted with some exhibits on the ramp in front of the hangar and in the warehouses located near the hangar. This is due to the restoration and improvement work that the North Hangar is undergoing.
Visitors had the opportunity to try out a car rollover simulator, watch K-9 demonstrations, learn about the mission and watch a demonstration by the Assistance and Rescue Section, among other things. As usual, there were also some exhibitors and civil associations such as CAAA - Clube Aveirense de Automóveis Antigos which, as in previous editions, brought an impressive collection of classic cars, the S.O.G. 13 Airsoft Team which provided the public with a target shooting area and an obstacle course to showcase the sport, and much more.
The static display of Air Force aircraft, unlike in previous editions, was a little poor, with only one Alpha Jet and a stand from 991 Squadron - “ Harpias ” displaying one unit of the UAVISION OGASSA. Over the course of the morning, they were joined by a TB-30 from 101 Squadron - “Roncos”.
After the morning demonstrations, the UH-60 Blackhawk was also introduced to the exhibition. The AW119 Koala was placed in a more distant location, so that if it was activated for an emergency, it could leave without any restrictions. The exhibition also included four aircraft belonging to various aviation schools in the north of the country.
Turning now to air activity, we had the usual “tour service” over the coastal area performed by the C-130 of 501 Squadron - “Bisontes”. This aircraft, which was recently handed over to the Squadron after modernization at OGMA, was used for the Flight Baptism that have become customary on Open Base Days.
The UH-60 Blackhawk provided a brutal demo, with its crew performing a “ballet ” that was certainly captivating for the eyes of everyone present. This aircraft was undoubtedly an excellent choice for our Air Force, with the only drawback being the small number purchased (6 ordered, 2 of which are already in service). Its main mission is firefighting, but it can perform other missions such as air transport and tactical missions.
The “ Zangões” didn't disappoint either, doing what they do best, and performed a Search and Rescue demonstration in which they simulated the retrieval of a victim. After the demonstration, they treated the rest of the spectators to several passes, ending with a slow pass along the taxiway to greet those present.
On the flight back to its “home base”, Air Base No. 11 in Beja, a P3C of 601 Squadron - “Lobos” took a detour and flew over Air Base No. 8, making a number of passes, from one with the armament compartment doors open to one with the number 4 engine switched off. This aircraft was deployed for almost a month at the Lithuanian base of Siauliai, where it carried out various maritime patrol missions in the Baltic Sea, within the scope of NATO to promote security in the region.
It wouldn't be a “party” at an Air Force base without the traditional passing of a pair of QRA F-16s from Monte Real. Once again, with their speed and roar, they provided the rest of us with a sight that always suits any Air Force enthusiast.
Last but not least, and even though it was a very brief demo, I would like to praise the pilot at the controls of the TB-30 who, with some spectacular passes, knew just how to say goodbye to the visitors and mark the end of this year's Open Base Day at AB No.8.
