Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Search and Rescue (SAR) Bell 412EP Helicopter VH-VAB "Choppa 2" at Mackay and Gladstone Airports

After heading North through Central Queensland some 10 days ago, on Saturday 22 October, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Search and Rescue (SAR) Bell 412EP helicopter VH-VAB was noted passing through Mackay and Gladstone Airports heading back South to RAAF Base Amberley.

It had started the day by departing from Townsville before dawn for Mackay Airport where it took on fuel.  It then flew into Gladstone Airport where it was captured by local plane spotter Michael F.

After taking on more fuel, VH-VAB then departed for Amberley.

VH-VAB is owned by Lloyd Helicopters and operated by CHC Helicopters Australia for the RAAF.  It was interesting to note that VH-VAB was using the RAAF SAR radio callsign of "Choppa 2" during these flights today.

It appears that VH-VAB has been in Townsville in support of the very successful T150 Defence Force Air Show and Open Day which were held last weekend.

Thanks to local plane spotter Michael F who popped out to Gladstone Airport on Saturday morning and captured these great photos!

All photos taken by Michael Fleetwood  ©