RAAF Search and Rescue (CHC Helicopters) Agusta AW139 Helicopter VH-SYJ "Choppa 27" Arrives at Rockhampton Airport

Also arriving into Rockhampton Airport late on Sunday 2 July was CHC Helicopters Australia / Lloyd Helicopters Agusta AW139 helicopter VH-SYJ.  It arrived into Rocky directly from RAAF Base Amberley and was heard to use the radio callsign of "Choppa 27".

This is the chopper's second visit to the beef capital this year and as shown in these great photos, the Agusta is wearing slightly modified titles since its last visit but it still appears to be operating for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in a Search and Rescue (SAR) role by CHC Helicopters / Lloyd Helicopters.

"Choppa 27" was later heard to depart Rockhampton Airport for 'Camp Growl' which is within the Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA).  I presume it will be based there in a support role during joint Military Exercise Talisman Saber 2017 (TS17).

Sincere thanks once again to local plane spotters Kayanne H and Daniel B for being at the right place at the right time and taking the time to capture and send through these great photos!

Photos taken by Kayanne Hardsman and Daniel Bishop  ©