How many Chinooks does RAF Odiham have?
three Chinook squadrons
RAF Odiham in Hampshire is a front line support helicopter base working within the Joint Helicopter Command. The Station provides critical, rapid support for UK military operations throughout the world. Home of the UK Chinook Force, RAF Odiham operates three Chinook squadrons.
Can you visit RAF Odiham?
Visitors arriving at RAF Odiham should enter via the Main Gate and report to the Main Guard Room to book in and collect a Visitor’s Security Pass. Visitors must have valid photographic ID, e.g Passport or UK Drivers licence. All visitors are to be hosted and escorted by a member of the Station.
Who opened RAF Odiham?
Erhard Milch
Ironically the then Secretary-General of the Luftwaffe, Erhard Milch, conducted the official opening of the new RAF station on 18 October 1937. To think in just under three years, the Luftwaffe would be again visiting the airfield, but certainly not with the hand of friendship extended.
What helicopters are at RAF Odiham?
It is the home of the Royal Air Force’s heavy lift helicopter, the Chinook. Its current station commander is Group Captain Donal McGurk.
Why are Chinooks flying over my house?
TLDR – The most common reason why military helicopters may fly over residential properties is training. The home is likely in the flight path of the military’s training operations, which typically means that a military base or facility is nearby.
Where are Chinooks based in the UK?
RAF Odiham
RAF Odiham (IATA: ODH, ICAO: EGVO) is a Royal Air Force station situated a little to the south of the village of Odiham in Hampshire, England. It is the home of the Royal Air Force’s heavy lift helicopter, the Chinook.
Where can I fly in a Chinook helicopter?
“The aircraft will primarily be operating in the areas surrounding RAF Woodvale and RAF Leeming, which could include the Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, York and Middlesbrough areas. “The course qualifies pilots and crewmen to operate the Chinook helicopter on operations within the UK and when deployed overseas.
Who uses Chinook helicopters?
The military version of the helicopter has been exported to nations across the world; the U.S. Army and the Royal Air Force (see Boeing Chinook (UK variants)) have been its two largest users. The civilian version of the Chinook is the Boeing Vertol 234.
Can civilians own a Chinook?
Yes, civilians have bought Chinooks and operate them. The civilian designation is BV-234. Also, military retired aircraft have also been purchased and renovated. , 30 years as an aviation maintenance professional.
How many Chinooks does the RAF have?
Chinook at a glance The UK operates 60 Chinook twin-rotor aircraft, based at RAF Odiham in Hampshire. A heavyweight of the battlefield, Chinook can carry up to 54 troops or 10 tonnes of cargo. It is primarily used for troop and load carrying but performs a crucial secondary casualty evacuation role.