Mystery Wessex Helo

[BigDMac62]

Hi. In the grounds of Belfast International Airport ( Aldergrove ) there is a carcass of an ex-RAF Wessex helicopter. Can anyone shed some light on this aircraft, for example, its registration, history etc. I would assume that it was active during Operation Banner, but I could be wrong. I'm particularly interested in how it came to become a derelict at the airport. Any information would be welcome. Thank you.

[treadigraph]

Apparently it is XT456. (https://www.airport-data.com/aircraft/photo/001176866.html)..

It was delivered there in 1987 and used for Battle Damage Repair Training, ex Royal Navy rather than RAF.

[134brat]

Probably XT456 Wessex HU5 Retired November 87 and allocated 8941M.

707 Squadron Culdrose 1965. 845 Squadron Culdrose 1968. This can has a long colourful history of accidents and repairs, too long for here.
Went to the South Atlantic on RFA Engadine returned to Devonport 3rd December 82. Stored at Wroughton until issued to 72 Squadron Aldergrove for BDR training. Derelict on Aldergrove dump by March 98. Total hours 3364.40

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It must have had a hard life if it went to the knackers yard with just over 3000 hrs - I guess that's what happens when you let the Navy fly helicopters :)

[Georg1na]

Crab - you probably remember this!! :ok:


https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/606x482/twice_the_effect_70b57168cb0ff101e907fe8403c07a87903c6478.jp g

[NutLoose]

Judging by the state of it 72Sqn were sh*t at BDR, not a patch in sight, I’m assuming all the speed tape has long since fallen off :E