A short ceremony to begin six months conversion training for 6 helicopter pilots has been held at the Air Force Base Takoradi on Wednesday 12 June 2024. Conversion training is conducted for pilots to enable them operate a specific type of aircraft in the Ghana Air Force. 

Delivering her opening address, the Flying Group Commander, Group Captain Selase Yaya Agbenyefia stated the importance of the training, adding that, it marks a significant milestone in the lives of the pilots. She advised them to eschew complacency, prioritise safety and be professional at all times. Group Captain Agbenyefia also shared lessons from her decade experience in flying the Z-9 helicopters. She challenged them to push beyond their limits so as to be transformed into highly skilled pilots for the Ghana Air Force.

The Flying Group Commander also reminded the pilots of their roles as ambassadors of the Ghana Air Force and therefore they should strive to make a positive impact and uphold the highest standards in the profession. She also pledged her support at all times and commended the instructors and trainers for their dedication, guidance and mentorship which she said would shape the next generation of pilots in the Ghana Air Force.

On his part, the Course Commander and Training Officer of the Number 8 Helicopter Wing, Squadron Leader Godwin Akomeah Bota remarked that that it was crucial to convert the pilots onto the Z-9 aircraft to begin their career in the Ghana Air Force. He noted that, this was part of the requirements after the pilot’s successful completion of their initial 7 months rigorous professional helicopter pilot training at the United States Aviation Training Solutions (USATs) in Florida, USA.

Squadron Leader Bota expressed his appreciation to the Flying Group Commander and all the stakeholders for their guidance and diverse support to the Number 8 Helicopter Wing.

In attendance were the Commanding Officer, Air Traffic Management Services, Wing Commander Kwame Alifo, Senior Officers, Officers and Airmen.