On the afternoon of February 7th, 2025, Vietnam Aviation Academy (VAA) proudly hosted the graduation ceremony for the inaugural cohort of the DHC-6 seaplane pilot training program, developed in collaboration with the Vietnam People’s Navy.
The momentous event signifies an important milestone in the partnership between VAA, the Navy, and international training institutions, which aims to cultivate highly skilled pilots to safeguard the nation’s maritime sovereignty.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Colonel Nguyen Van Nghia, Hero of the Armed Forces and former VAA Director; Rear Admiral Pham Nhu Xuan, Deputy Commander of the Navy; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Hoai An, Chairman of the Board; and Dr. Nguyen Thi Hai Hang, Director of VAA, along with other distinguished leaders and representatives from both institutions.
Over the past four years, eight cadets underwent rigorous training at VAA and affiliated aviation institutions across France, Italy, Canada, and Demark. Their comprehensive program encompassed foundational to advanced ICAO- standard aviation English, basic commercial piloting, multi-engine instrument flying, multi-crew coordination, and specialized DHC-6 seaplane operations. Their unwavering dedication and perseverance have culminated in their successful completion of the curriculum, setting their readiness to serve in the Naval Air Force’s 954th Brigade.
Rear Admiral Pham Nhu Xuan extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduates, emphasizing the critical roles that they will play in the national defense. He urged them to continually enhance their political acumen and professional expertise, striving to become exemplary pilots who uphold safety and contribute to the steadfast protection of the national airspace and maritime territories.
Dr. Nguyen Thị Hai Hang, Director of VAA, expressed immense pride in the graduates’s achievements and reaffirmed the Academy’s honor in being entrusted by the Navy to train future military aviators. The robust collaboration between VAA and the Navy has yielded a meticulous structure that meets international standards. This partnership ensures each cadet is set with the political fortitude, knowledge, and skills to participate in the 954th Brigade – a pivotal unitin the national’s maritime defense domains.
Representing the graduates, class representative Ho Duc Truong delivered a gratitude speech to the Vietnam People’s Navy, Vietnam Aviation Academy, and their abroad instructors who have supported them wholeheartedly throughout the challenging journey. He reflected on the rigorous academic training they underwent to acknowledge military discipline, resilience, and determination. He pledged, on behalf of his fellows, to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and dedication in the upcoming service.
Throughout the journey, the cadets have demonstrated relentless effort from their initial days studying aviation English at VAA, to their first abroad training program at ENAC in France and subsequent seaplane specialization in Italy, Canada, and Denmark. Each phase demands a steadfast commitment, discipline, and an indomitable spirit to meet the program’s stringent standards.
As these eight pilots embark on their professional journey, they carry with them the collective pride and expectations of their mentors, family, and nation. Their accomplishments not only represent personal triumphs but also underscore the success of collaborative efforts between VAA and the Vietnam People’s Navy in advancing the country’s aviation and defense capabilities.
Additional photos regarding the Graduation Ceremony:
