The second helicopter designated to enhance Madeira's operational capacity will not be available during the summer period. Miguel Albuquerque, President of the Regional Government, confirmed that the process awaits the signature of the Minister of National Defence for the Air Force to launch the tender.
"In July, we signed the protocols. It is currently on the Minister of Defence's desk for signature to open the tender for the Air Force," Albuquerque stated. When asked if the aircraft could still arrive this summer, he admitted it "will no longer happen."
The Regional Government President downplayed the delay, noting that the fire risk period has been extended until November. "I want it to come. As for whether it's summer or not... We have extended the fire risk situation until November, so if it arrives by November, I have no problem," he said. Albuquerque recalled that the protocol was discussed with the Prime Minister and the regional part was completed in July, with everything ready to open the tender.
