Six Australian Army Blackhawk Helicopters Spotted Passing Back Through Rockhampton and Bundaberg Airports

During Sunday 16 September, the six Australian Army Sikorsky S-70A-9 Blackhawk helicopters that ventured North to Townsville for an exercise during August, were spotted passing back South through Rockhampton and Bundaberg Airports while heading home from Townsville.

Blackhawks A25-111 as "Kopis 111", A25-104 as "Kopis 104"and A25-109 as "Kopis 109" all flew IFR into Rocky from Townsville.

While A25-203 as "Phalanx 73" and A25-101 and A25-211 flying together as "Phalanx", all flew VFR into Rocky also from Townsville.

After taking on fuel, A25-111 departed South followed by A25-101, A25-211 and A25-203 which all departed together as "Phalanx" with these three then landing at Bundaberg Airport (as pictured) where they had another fuel stop.

A25-104 suffered a maintenance issue and remained parked at Rockhampton Airport and looked to be staying for the night.  While after trying to assist the stranded Blackhawk, A25-109 later departed direct to Oakey as "Kopis 109".

UPDATE!  On Tuesday 18 September, A25-104 was heard finally departing Rockhampton Airport also for Oakey as "Kopis 104".

All of the Blackhawks are all flown by the Australian Army's 171st Aviation Squadron (forming part of the 6th Aviation Regiment) based at Holsworthy Barracks near Sydney.

Sincere thanks to the local plane spotters Trevor H and Kayanne H for taking the time to capture and send through these great photos!

Photos taken by Kayanne Hardsman, Trevor Hardsman and Dan B  ©