RAAF Search and Rescue (CHC Helicopters) Sikorsky S-76A VH-HRP "Choppa 8" Spotted at Gladstone Airport

On Monday 21 November, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Search and Rescue (CHC Helicopters) Sikorsky S-76A VH-HRP was spotted passing through Gladstone Airport while ferrying North from RAAF Base Amberley to Mackay Airport and then Townsville.

On this journey, VH-HRP was heard to be using the radio callsign of "Choppa 8".

VH-HRP "Choppa 8" was ferrying to Townsville where it is believed that it will participate in the RAAF's Exercise High Sierra 16-2 - the final training exercise for pilots graduating from Number 2 Operational Conversion Unit. No. 2OCU Squadron which operates out of RAAF Base Williamtown.  The Exercise is expected to take place around Townsville throughout November and into December.

All photos taken by 'Mick'  ©