RAAF Search and Rescue (CHC Helicopters) Agusta AW139 Helicopter VH-RQY "Choppa 41" Arrives into Rockhampton Airport

On Monday 31 May, CHC Helicopters Australia / Lloyd Helicopters Agusta AW139 helicopter VH-RQY was noted arriving into Rockhampton Airport direct from RAAF Base Amberley.  It was heard to be using the radio callsign of "Choppa 41".

File photo

The Agusta operates for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in a Search and Rescue (SAR) role by CHC Helicopters / Lloyd Helicopters.

The reason behind its visit is unclear, but it joins fellow Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Search and Rescue (SAR) (CHC Helicopters Australia / Lloyd Helicopters) Bell 412EP helicopter VH-EPH on the ground at Rockhampton Airport.

UPDATE!  On Tuesday 1 June, VH-RQY was noted operating out of Rockhampton Airport as "Rescue 42".  Perhaps the Bell 412 VH-EPH has broken down?

Photo taken by Simon Coates  ©