The Advanced Combined Air Terminal Training (ACATT) 2025, held from March 17 to 28 at the Air Movement Training Center (AMTC) in Altenstadt, Germany, brought together over 30 participants from 10 European nations: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Bulgaria, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, and Austria. The event aimed to enhance multinational interoperability in air mobility operations by focusing on the standardization of air terminal procedures and ground handling, in alignment with the EATC Ground Operational Manual.
The AMTC holds particular significance as the first facility to be recognized by the European Air Transport Command as a multinational ground handling centre, a distinction it received on July 19, 2021. This milestone highlights its pivotal role in fostering European air mobility and supporting cross-border air transport operations.
Strengthening Cooperation in Global Air Mobility
Under the guidance of EATC instructors, participants, who are experienced air mobility handlers, refined their skills in air terminal operations. The training emphasized coordination, efficiency, and the consistent application of best practices across European air forces. By streamlining procedures, the event bolstered Europe’s overall air mobility capabilities and prepared the participants for real-world scenarios.
ACATT serves as a vital event for strengthening multinational cooperation in air mobility, combining theoretical lessons with practical exercises. Its core objective is to improve coordination among air mobility forces, enabling them to respond effectively to global operational needs and crises.
The EATC's Role in Advancing Air Mobility
As the organizer of ACATT, the European Air Transport Command plays a crucial role in advancing multinational air mobility. Through exercises like ACATT, the EATC fosters alignment of procedures, resource sharing, and collaboration among European nations. This collective approach ensures smooth, efficient combined operations, creating a unified air mobility network.
Enhancing Interoperability
ACATT 2025 balanced theoretical training with hands-on exercises, covering essential tasks such as air cargo handling, loading and offloading operations, emergency response procedures, and optimizing airlift capabilities for multinational missions. One of the key outcomes of the event was the enhancement of interoperability, with participants harmonizing their practices in line with the EATC Ground Operational Manual. This improvement ensures seamless collaboration in complex, real-world environments.
Looking Ahead: A Unified Future for Air Mobility
Building on the success of ACATT 2025, the EATC remains committed to advancing global air mobility. Future exercises will continue to refine operational procedures, enhance coordination, and ensure that both European and partner nations’ air forces are well-prepared for emerging challenges. The event highlighted the importance of unity within the global air mobility community, reinforcing the foundation of a robust and effective air transport network for years to come.