Image Credit: Ministry of Defence
Have you ever been in a Puma Helicopter?
March sees the draw down of the helicopter, which has carried troops, supplies and humanitarian aid in operations and exercises around the world since 1971.
On 31 March the Puma HC.Mk2 helicopters based at RAF Benson will be retired from service.
This decision is part of a broader package of Strategic measures aimed at generating savings to reinvest in Defence.
The Puma helicopters have been in service since 1971.
Whilst RAF Benson will still operate the Chinook helicopter and Tutor, with the drawdown of the Puma fleet, there will be a noticeable reduction on helicopter activity in the local area.
This period of reduced activity may mean RAF Benson is utilised more frequently by visiting aircraft.
Once the new medium lift helicopter is in service activity will ramp up once again.
Wg Cdr Tierney, Station Commander at RAF Benson said: “As a Station we would like to thank the local community for your ongoing support to both Station activities and our personnel. A formation of Puma’s will depart from RAF Benson for a farewell flight on the 26 Mar and return on the 27, if you would like to spectate, please do so safely and avoid blocking the crash gates.”
On the 26th March, the Puma HC.Mk2 helicopter will pass over the following locations: (Timings to be confirmed)
RAF Odiham, Andover, Middle Wallop, Boscombe Down, Hereford, Shobdon, RAF Cosford, RAF Shawbury, RAF Valley, Aldergrove, Binevenagh, Giant’s Causeway, Bangor, and finally returning to RAF Valley.
