Salford aviation enthusiasts will have a rare opportunity to witness history as long-serving Royal Air Force helicopter takes to the skies over Barton Aerodrome.
The event will see the Royal Air Force’s Puma force helicopters fly over Salford for their farewell flypast.
The fly over will be a part of the national tour marking the retirement of the long-serving aircraft after more than 50 years in operation.
The Westland Puma HC2 has been a key part of RAF operations since 1971, providing crucial transport and support in military and humanitarian missions worldwide.
Most recently, Pumas played a vital role in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, transporting medical supplies and personnel and with the RAF modernising its fleet, the Puma is being retired and will be replaced by a new medium-lift helicopter, set to be introduced in the coming years.
Barton Aerodrome has been selected as one of the venues for the Puma Farewell Flypast and is expected to attract crowds of aviation enthusiasts.
The aerodrome said: “Last week we were honoured to be contacted by the Royal Air Force UK to advise that Barton Aerodrome had been selected as a flypast location on day two of this week’s Puma Farewell Flypast flights.
“The Puma Force has been a regular visitor to Barton Aerodrome over the years, and we believe it’s only appropriate to honour the support you have provided by requesting a fly-through at 1020z on Thursday, 27 March, as part of our farewell tour of the UK.
Spectators are encouraged to share photos and videos of the event as the RAF bids goodbye to one of its most recognizable helicopters.
And with the Puma Farewell Flypast flights expected to take place at approximately 10.20am on Thursday 27 March, it will be a great chance for Salford residents to see the helicopters in action before retiring from service.
For more information on the Barton Aerodrome, click here.
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