Royal Moroccan Air Force and U.S. Air Force have carried out in Morocco engine running on and offloading procedures (ERO), a high-risk, high-reward capability that allows cargo to be loaded or unloaded while an aircraft’s engines remain running.
In these tactical operations, the risks are real. Exhaust pulsations can tip unsecured cargo. Engines can pull in anything, or anyone, too close. Communication must be precise, deliberate and understood across languages and experience levels. There is no margin for hesitation or error.
A press statement issued lately by U.S. Army says American Air forces assigned to the 514th Air Mobility Wing’s 88th Aerial Port Squadron laid the groundwork earlier in a Kenitra classroom, teaching communication techniques, hand signals and safety protocols essential to ERO operations. But knowledge alone isn’t enough. On the tarmac, under the roar of engines and the pressure of execution, training becomes instinct.
“Safety is paramount when performing these operations — a lot can go wrong,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Christopher Pacheco, 88th APS load planner. “That is why we train. It is also why being able to participate in exercises like this is invaluable.”
As the aircraft moved into position, the classroom lessons transitioned into action. U.S. and Moroccan airmen moved in sync, translating instruction into execution, hand signals exchanged, cargo guided carefully into place, eyes constantly scanning for hazards.
ERO operations reduce the need for aircraft shutdowns, cutting down on time, fuel consumption and procedural delays. In real-world scenarios, that speed can mean the difference between mission success and failure, delivering critical equipment exactly when and where it’s needed.
But beyond the efficiency gains, the value lies in the partnership.
“We had a great time. Everyone learned proper hand signals and how to safely get the gear onboard,” Master Sgt Pacheco said. “Long-term, this skill should be something that would benefit everyone it could affect, if it were ever needed.”
That shared investment in readiness is at the heart of exercise African Lion 2026, U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise. Bringing together more than 5,600 civilian and military personnel from over 40 nations, the U.S.-Morocco drills enhance interoperability, innovation and regional security.
