The President of the Government received in Horta the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Manuel Teixeira Rolo, who reassured that all necessary processes to provide Air Base no.4 with a second full crew for EH101 search and rescue helicopter are ongoing.
 
"This meeting allowed us to establish the progress of matters that concern the Region.”There are matters that do not depend solely on the will of those responsible for them and involve other aspects. However, I would like to emphasise the very positive efforts and the fulfilment of these commitments," said Vasco Cordeiro.
 
In late April, the Joint Declaration of the National Government and Regional Government, signed during the Prime Minister's official visit of the to the Region, safeguards the following principle: "ensure the permanence of an additional crew for the EH101 search and rescue helicopter, thus guaranteeing the operation of the two aircraft stationed at Air Base no. 4."
 
Speaking after the meeting with General Manuel Rolo, the President of the Government also stressed the "professionalism, work and responsiveness of the men and women of the Air Force serving in the Azores, who have provided assistance to those in need in the hours of greatest distress."
 
"In many cases, it is precisely the dedication and commitment of the Air Force, but also of all armed forces operating in the Region, which make the difference between life and situations of misfortune," said Vasco Cordeiro.