RAF Chinook helicopters spotted over Sheffield

Residents across the city reportedly spotted Chinooks flying over their homes for the past two days.

The low-level flights are thought to be part of Operation Chameleon, which began on February 23 and is set to continue until March 19.

According to Ministry of Defence documents available online, the exercise involves low-flying rotary and transport vehicles. However, there are no plans for jets to become involved.

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The Boeing CH-47 Chinook is an American twin-engine helicopter which has been in service since 1962 and is operated by armed forces around the world.

Based at RAF Odiham in Hampshire, Chinooks are known to be extremely capable and highly versatile support helicopters that can be operated from land bases or ships into a diverse range of environments.

The aircraft are primarily used for trooping, resupply and battlefield casualty evacuation.

A secondary role includes Search and Rescue.

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It can carry up to 55 troops or up to approximately 10 tonnes of mixed cargo.

It is also recognisable by the distinctive ‘thud’ of their twin rotor blades.

This is not the first time the residents spotted the distinctive aircraft.

In September 2019, two RAF Chinook helicopters flew over Sheffield.

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