RAF Chinook helicopter celebrates 40th anniversary with a makeover
Royal Air Force Odiham is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Chinook helicopter entering RAF Service with a commemorative new colour scheme.
The new colour scheme was unveiled as the aircraft departed RAF Odiham, the home of the Chinook Force, on a routine training flight.
On board was the paint scheme designer and current Chinook pilot Flight Lieutenant Andy Donovan of 27 Squadron, RAF Odiham who said, "It has been a great privilege to rejuvenate special liveries on the Chinook Force over the past five years."
The commemorative paint scheme was applied during regular scheduled routine maintenance at no additional cost.
The design has taken two years of groundwork and engineering preparation before entering the paint bay at RAF Odiham.
A dedicated team from Serco have worked over several weeks to apply the special commemorative livery.
Short history of the Boeing CH-47 Chinook Helicopter
The Boeing CH-47 Chinook Helicopter entered RAF service on the 22nd November 1980.
Throughout its 40 years of service the Chinook has made an immeasurable contribution to the Service, supporting communities across the UK and operating in every major conflict since the Falklands War.
Commander of the Joint Helicopter Command Air Vice Marshal Nigel Colman OBE said, "For most of its time in Service, the RAF Chinook has been part of the Joint Helicopter Command where its incredible capability has been in great demand, both at home and overseas."
RAF Odiham Station Commander Group Captain Nick Knight OBE MA said, "Since receiving the Chinook in 1980, its contribution to Defence has been profound. From first deployment to the Falklands to current operations in West Africa, the Chinook has continually delivered on operations."
The newly painted aircraft, ZD984, has re-entered 27 Squadron's fleet at RAF Odiham and will resume essential routine training for operations in the UK and overseas.
The painted Chinook will support the RAF Chinook Display Team's season and commemorative events throughout 2021.