Perhaps you’ve noticed the constant hum of helicopters overhead in Bucharest. These aircraft may be connected to the Inspectoratul General de Aviație al M.A.I.
Let’s delve into the world of the Inspectoratul General de Aviație. It is a key aviation unit within Romania’s Ministry of Internal Affairs. It ensures air support for the ministry’s diverse tasks. The Inspectoratul General de Aviație offers unique services. These services support law enforcement and the community. It also aids other governmental bodies.
Established on December 20 1948 the Inspectoratul General de Aviație initially served civil society. It started as the Air Transport Flotilla at the Dudești-Cioplea airfield. The unit moved to Popești-Leordeni in 1949. It then relocated to Otopeni Airport. Since 1979 the Inspectoratul General de Aviație has been based at Aurel Vlaicu International Airport.
The Inspectoratul General de Aviație experienced reorganization on May 1 2008. This led to the creation of the Aviation Inspectorate. Four special aviation units were formed under it. They are located in Bucharest Cluj Napoca Iași and Tulcea. The unit became fully operational on May 15 2008.
The Inspectoratul General de Aviație plays a crucial role in various missions. It is involved in search and rescue operations. It also handles humanitarian and community missions. Monitoring road traffic is another key function. The Inspectoratul General de Aviație also undertakes special missions. These are often in collaboration with the Romanian Police Gendarmerie or Romanian Intelligence Service.
The Inspectoratul General de Aviație has a distinct structure. Besides the five special aviation units, it has a Training and Development Detachment. There is also an Aeromedical Detachment. Both detachments are in Bucharest. The Aeromedical Detachment conducts life-saving missions. It operates flights for SMURD the emergency medical service. SMURD HEMS bases have commanders. These commanders are appointed by the General Inspector.
Throughout its history the Inspectoratul General de Aviație has used many aircraft. These include the Ju 52 and Lockheed 10. They also used the Fiesler Storch and Fleet 10. Today the fleet includes Eurocopter EC135 and IAR 316B helicopters. Mil Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters are also in service. The Inspectoratul General de Aviație operates S-70M Black Hawk helicopters. The air plane fleet includes Piper PA-42 Cheyenne and Cessna Citation V. They also have Learjet 75 aircraft.
In 2021 Romania purchased seven S-70M Black Hawk helicopters. The first was delivered in November 2023. The last arrived in December. The Inspectoratul General de Aviație aims to have twelve Black Hawks.
The Inspectoratul General de Aviație is vital to Romania’s safety. It also helps with emergency response. Its commitment is unwavering. The dedicated aviators ensure public safety. They also support those in need. Their work often goes unnoticed but it is essential. The Inspectoratul General de Aviație remains a pillar of strength. It protects and serves the Romanian people.