550th Air Tactical Wing

The 550th Air Tactical Wing was an important unit of the Philippine Air Force, established in the 1970s to enhance the country’s airlift and tactical transport capabilities. Headquartered at Villamor Air Base, the wing was tasked with providing air mobility, logistical support, and tactical airlift for troops and equipment across the archipelago. Throughout its service, the 550th ATW operated various transport aircraft, including the C-130 Hercules and Nomad planes, supporting both military operations and humanitarian missions. The unit played a vital role in internal security operations and disaster response before it was eventually reorganized and its functions absorbed into other PAF units.