571 MSAS strengthens Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Response Capabilities in Ecuador Published Sept. 23, 2025 By Maj. Carlos Valdivia 621st Contingency Response Wing LATACUNGA, Ecuador -- From September 2-4, 2025, six Air Advisors from the 571st Mobility Support Advisory Squadron (MSAS) partnered with the Ecuadorian Air Force (FAE) at Base Aerea Cotopaxi to conduct a subject matter expert exchange (SMEE) focused on strategic airlift for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HA/DR) operations. This collaborative effort brought together US Air Force mobility advisors and regional partners to enhance coordination and interoperability in crisis response. The exchange kicked off with a focus on Command and Control, where Capt. Jayson Yanamura shared best practices for managing military airfield environments. Emphasis was placed on efficient communication between air traffic control, ground personnel, and aircrews, including streamlined Prior Permission Required (PPR) procedures to improve coordination and safety protocols for specialized operations. The FAE typically operates out of civilian-operated airfields, so the input provided through this exchange helped expand their organic airfield management capability. Lt. Col. Luis Garcia, Director of Operations at the System of Cooperation Among the American Air Forces (SICOFAA) Permanent Secretariat, provided an overview of SICOFAA’s operational and logistical framework. SICOFAA is an apolitical voluntary organization that unites Air Forces across North and South America to foster mutual support, friendship, and joint operations as directed by their governments. Garcia shared the left and right bounds of SICOFAA’s capabilities and facilitated discussions on combined doctrine and the Combined Air Operations Manual (MOAC). FAE leadership shared their experiences working with SICOFAA during the 2016 earthquake in the Ecuadorian province of Manabi, where air mobility support from SICOFAA members, including the Peruvian Air Force and the Bolivian Air Force, provided humanitarian assistance support to the affected population. “This exchange reinforced our commitment to building a resilient network of airlift capabilities,” said Capt. Valdir Ruiz, Mission Commander for the SMEE. “By sharing expertise and standardizing procedures across our Air Forces, we’re better prepared to support each other and our regional partners during future crises.” This enhanced collaboration strengthens U.S. security by fostering a network of partner Air Forces capable of responding to regional emergencies, ensuring stability in the Western Hemisphere. The event concluded with a closing ceremony, marking a successful step toward enhanced HA/DR readiness. The 571 MSAS continues to lead efforts in strengthening global mobility partnerships by ensuring rapid, effective cooperation and burden sharing across the western hemisphere.