RAF Chinook double coup for Air Waves Portrush Air Show

The RAF Chinook Helicopter Display will be performing at both days of this years Air Waves Portrush Airshow (September 3rd and 4th, (Submitted Pic.)

The Chinook Display Team will join the line-up alongside the Red Arrows to perform on both Saturday and Sunday at the exciting air show event.

Paul Sall, Airshow Director, said, “We’ve pulled off a bit a coup! The astonishing display by the Chinook will make its Portrush debut this September and is one of the most talked about and hotly anticipated displays on the circuit. They are displaying in only 11 UK venues this year and we will host the only display in Northern Ireland – it’s going to be show-stopping.”

Weighing around 15 tonnes, Chinooks are the heavy-lifters of the helicopter world, with a lifting capacity of 10 tonnes, the equivalent of two African bush elephants. The cabin is large enough to accommodate two Land Rovers, or when in use for search and rescue or casualty evacuation, they can carry a total of 24 stretchers.

Paul Sall continued, “Bearing in mind the might and weight of these aircraft, crowds at Air Waves Portrush can expect to see a display which includes high energy corkscrews, spiralling, a 360 degree orbit low to the ground, rearward takeoffs, a move known as a “noseover” and even a bow to the crowd. The versatility and manoeuvrability of this powerhouse of an aircraft has to be seen to be believed.”

RAF Air Vice Marshall David Niven said: “The Royal Air Force is proud to bring the RAF Chinook Flying Display to Northern Ireland. They have worked hard on this new display and are looking forward to showing at Air Waves.”