The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) celebrated a significant milestone on June 12th, marking the 93rd anniversary of the National Air Mail (CAN) and Transport Aviation. The ceremony, held at the Afonsos Air Base (BAAF) in Rio de Janeiro, was a grand affair attended by prominent figures in aviation.
The event was presided over by the Chief of the Air Force General Staff, Lieutenant-Brigadier Sergio Roberto de Almeida, and hosted by the Commander of BAAF, Colonel Aviator Elio de Almeida Abreu Junior. Among the attendees were former Air Force Commander, Lieutenant-Brigadier Carlos de Almeida Baptista, members of the High Command, General Officers from the Brazilian Navy and Army, Commanders, Chiefs, Directors, and other distinguished guests from various military organizations.
During the ceremony, Major-Brigadier Cezar Ney Britto de Mello was honored with a plaque in recognition of his significant contributions. The event also paid homage to historical figures like Nelson Freire Lavenére-Wanderley, Casimiro Montenegro Filho, Lemos Cunha, and Eduardo Gomes, who played pivotal roles in the development of CAN.
In a symbolic gesture representing the commitment to Transport Aviation, Colonel Aviator Alexandre Nogueira de Sousa, a representative of the veterans, received the standard of the former Air Transport Command. This act underscored the enduring legacy and dedication of those who have served in the field of air transport.
A notable highlight of the ceremony was the display of the Curtiss Fledgling K-263 aircraft. This iconic aircraft is historically significant as it was used to transport the first mail pouch containing two letters from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo on June 12, 1931, by Lieutenants Casimiro Montenegro Filho and Nelson Freire Lavenére-Wanderley.
Today, the FAB operates 13 transport aviation units, utilizing a diverse fleet that includes the KC-30, KC-390 Millennium, C-105 Amazonas, C-99, C-97 BrasÃlia, C-98 Caravan, C-95 Bandeirante, and U-100 Phenom. These units are strategically located across various regions of Brazil, including Manaus, Belém, Parnamirim, Rio de Janeiro, Canoas, Campo Grande, Anápolis, and BrasÃlia.
The ceremony not only celebrated the rich history and achievements of the CAN and Transport Aviation but also highlighted the ongoing advancements and dedication of the Brazilian Air Force in maintaining its legacy and adapting to modern aviation needs. As noted by FAB, this event was a testament to the enduring spirit and innovation that have characterized Brazilian military aviation for nearly a century.
