RAAF Concludes Inaugural Foreign National Air Terminal Operator Course at RMAF Butterworth

The inaugural Foreign National Air Terminal Operator (FN-ATO) course delivered by instructors from the RAAF School of Administration and Logistics Training (RAAFSALT) has concluded at RMAF Butterworth, located on the west coast of Malaysia.

The course is a milestone initiative as it has formalised air cargo delivery training for the LEC (Locally engaged civilians) workforce supporting ADF aircraft operations across Southeast Asia.

LECs, with 19 Squadron, completed the two-week course, which delivered hands-on and theoretical instruction in aircraft pallet building, cargo preparation, load calculations, documentation and air terminal operations, to ensure that the LECs meet the required standards for Defence Aviation Safety Authority regulations and defense policy.

“Our LECs have been a part of 19 Squadron for decades,” said Commanding Officer 19 Squadron Wing Commander Belinda Edmunds. “This formal training not only enhances their skills but also acknowledges their valuable contribution to ADF operations in the region.”

The introduction of the FN-ATO course provides structured training and formal recognition of the LECs expertise, which will enhance their autonomy and reduce the need for continuous oversight by RAAF movements personnel. The training will free up RAAF movements personnel to focus on broader air cargo delivery responsibilities while ensuring seamless logistics support at Butterworth.