In an important milestone for Brazilian transport aviation, The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has taken delivery of the first KC-30 aircraft, the local designation for the Airbus A330-200, with registration number FAB 2901.
The aircraft is the first of the tender awarded to Azul Linhas Aéreas for the delivery of another unit, intending to increase operational capacity in strategic actions such as aerial refueling (REVO), logistic airlift, and humanitarian aid.
The KC-30 will be the largest aircraft ever operated by the FAB and will provide the country with a strategic transport capability capable of carrying 250 passengers and flying up to 8,000 nautical miles. The strategic mission capabilities of the KC-30 will provide the FAB with a significant expansion of its operational capabilities.
During the ceremony, the Air Force commander highlighted the importance of these two aircraft in defending the country and supporting national development. According to Baptista Jr, “The reception ceremony of the Airbus A330, FAB 2901 as of today, symbolizes the beginning of a new era for the Air Force.
The second aircraft acquired by Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras is currently in France for a Check-C overhaul and will later fly on to Ireland, where it will be painted in FAB colors. From Europe, the KC-30 will fly to the United States, where it will undergo a technical inspection by the Brazilian Military Aviation Commission in Washington before arriving in Brazil in the coming weeks.