The unit was formed from Esquadra de Instrução Complementar de Helicópteros in Nov 1978 and over the next 15 years absorbed the helicopters of Esq 551 (in 1986) and Esq 111 (in 1993). 
The unit detached 4x Alouette III to Timor Leste between Feb 2000 and Jul 2002, as part of a UN mission.
Also known as The Zangões (Drones), its primary role is to provide tactical transport and air assault support. It supports search and rescue and fire fighting operations, as a secondary mission.
News about Esquadra de Transporte 552 |
Portugal Retired Alouette III
29-Jun-20 - Portuguese Air Force retired the Alouette III helicopter after 57 years of service and 300,000 flight hours. They were replaced by the Leonardo AW119Kx Koala
Portuguese Koalas in Search and Rescue
11-Jun-20 - Portugal Air Force (FAP) new Koala helicopter from the Ovar airbase SAR detachment completed search and rescue mission in support of the civilian protection agency #Koala
First Two AW119Kx Delivered to Portugal
22-Feb-19 - Portugal’s Air Force received the first two of five AW119Kx in a ceremony held at Beja Air Base. Rest will followed on early 2020. The new helicopter is replacing the Alouette III in service since 1960s #Delivery
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Models Esq 552 List of helicopters |
| C/N | Version | Built | In this Org | In other Org | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Esquadra de Transporte 552 Operations |
| Dates | Operation | |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-apr-17 | 2023-apr-17 | Rescue from Peneda-Gerês National Park |
| 2022-nov-18 | 2022-nov-18 | 6th Meeting of Rescue Swimmers Association |
| 2019-oct-14 | 2019-oct-16 | MORSA 2019 |
| Hot Blade 2014 | ||
| Hot Blade 2013 | ||
| Hot Blade 2012 | ||
| 2000-feb | 2002-jul |  UNTAET |
