On March 13, 2025, the European Air Transport Command (EATC) hosted a Pilot in Command Under Supervision (PICUS) event, welcoming Future Aircraft Commanders and Operations (OPS) personnel from its member nations.
This initiative was designed to provide pilots transitioning from co-pilot to aircraft captain/commander with a thorough introduction to the operational processes and functional areas of EATC’s daily business. The visit enhanced their understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and interaction with the EATC, preparing them for the challenges of multinational air mobility operations.
The event commenced with a welcoming address by Major General Franck Mollard, Commander of the EATC. His speech emphasized the significance of well-trained aircraft commanders in ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of multinational air transport missions.
Following the opening remarks, participants received briefings from EATC’s three primary divisions:
- Operational Division: Provided an in-depth look at the EATC’s core mission planning and execution processes, focusing on how aircraft commanders interact with the EATC to ensure mission success.
- Functional Division: Offered insights into the standardization of procedures, training programs, and the importance of harmonizing practices across member nations for seamless operations.
- Policy and Support Division: Highlighted key policies governing EATC operations, resource management, and ongoing strategic initiatives to strengthen air mobility capabilities.
To bridge theory with practice, the Operational and Functional Divisions organized practical workshops. These sessions allowed participants to engage in realistic mission scenarios, enhancing their decision-making and problem-solving skills in a multinational operational environment.
Beyond its educational value, the event served as a crucial networking platform, enabling future commanders and OPS personnel to build relationships and share experiences. This exchange of knowledge fostered a collaborative spirit essential for the success of multinational operations.
By immersing these future leaders in advanced air mobility concepts and processes, EATC reaffirmed its commitment to shaping skilled and well-prepared aircraft commanders who will contribute to the success of European air mobility operations.