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Executive Transport Wing of the German Air Force

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Article Genealogy
Parent: Chancellor of Germany Hop 4
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2. After dedup14 (None)
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Executive Transport Wing of the German Air Force
Unit nameExecutive Transport Wing of the German Air Force
Native nameFlugbereitschaft des Bundesministeriums der Verteidigung
Dates1957–present
CountryGermany
BranchGerman Air Force
TypeVIP transport
Command structureAir Force Forces Command
GarrisonCologne Bonn Airport
Garrison labelHome base
Aircraft transportAirbus A321, Airbus A319, Airbus A350, Global 5000, Airbus A400M

Executive Transport Wing of the German Air Force. The unit, officially known as the Flugbereitschaft des Bundesministeriums der Verteidigung, is the dedicated VIP air transport service for the highest officials of the Federal Republic of Germany. Based primarily at Cologne Bonn Airport, it operates a fleet of modern aircraft to ensure secure and reliable travel for the President of Germany, the Chancellor of Germany, federal ministers, and other state dignitaries. The wing is a key component of the German Air Force and falls under the operational command of Air Force Forces Command.

History

The origins of the wing trace back to 1957, shortly after the founding of the Bundeswehr, when a dedicated flight readiness unit was established at Bonn-Cologne Airport using C-47 and DHC-2 aircraft. Following the Berlin Blockade and the integration of West Germany into NATO, the unit's role expanded significantly. It was instrumental during the Cold War, providing critical transport for government officials throughout periods like the Construction of the Berlin Wall and the German reunification process. Over the decades, it has undergone several reorganizations and fleet modernizations, transitioning from propeller-driven aircraft to jets like the Vickers Viscount and later the Boeing 707. A major consolidation occurred in 2010 when it merged with the Special Air Mission Wing of the German Army.

Mission and tasks

The primary mission is the safe and punctual air transport of the Federal Cabinet of Germany, members of the Bundestag, and high-ranking officers of the Bundeswehr. This includes supporting state visits, diplomatic missions to organizations like the United Nations and European Union, and travel to international summits such as the G7 and NATO meetings. The wing also has a secondary state mission, providing aeromedical evacuation capabilities during national crises and supporting German Armed Forces deployments abroad. Coordination with the Federal Ministry of Defence (Germany) and the Federal Chancellery is essential for mission planning and execution.

Aircraft and equipment

The fleet consists of specialized, long-range aircraft configured for VIP service. The core includes three Airbus A321 (with one configured for Medevac), two Airbus A319, and the newly introduced Airbus A350, which will replace older models. For shorter routes and flexible operations, the wing operates several Global 5000 business jets. The unit also has access to the Airbus A400M for transport into austere airfields. All aircraft are equipped with advanced secure communications systems, defensive aids suites for protection, and interiors designed for in-flight work and conferences. Maintenance is performed at the wing's own technical center at Cologne Bonn Airport.

Organization and bases

The wing is organized into flying groups, a technical group, and a support battalion. Its main operating base is Cologne Bonn Airport (EDDK), which houses its headquarters, maintenance facilities, and the majority of its aircraft. A secondary operational base is located at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (EDDB) to better serve the capital region and the Bundestag. The unit is directly subordinate to Air Force Forces Command in Kalkar. Personnel include highly experienced pilots, flight engineers, and cabin crews from the German Air Force, as well as technical specialists and security personnel.

Commanding officers

Command of the wing is held by a senior officer, typically holding the rank of Oberst (Colonel). Notable past commanders include Oberst Siegfried Schomburg, who led the unit during the Gulf War, and Oberst Thomas Schneider, who oversaw the integration of the Airbus A350 into service. The commanding officer reports directly to the commander of Air Force Forces Command and works closely with the State Secretary for Armament.

Incidents and accidents

The wing maintains an exceptional safety record, though several notable incidents have occurred. In 1975, a Vickers Viscount experienced a landing gear malfunction at Bonn-Cologne Airport. A more serious accident happened in 1990 when a Dassault Falcon 20 crashed near Eisenach, resulting in fatalities. In 2018, an Airbus A340 formerly operated by the wing suffered a bird strike incident after its transfer to the German Armed Forces. Each incident has led to rigorous reviews and enhancements to safety protocols by the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation.

Category:German Air Force Category:Transport units and formations of Germany Category:Aviation in Germany