Mystery Wessex Helo
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Joined: Feb 2021
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From: Carrickfergus
Mystery Wessex Helo
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.
Gnome de PPRuNe
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Too close to Croydon for comfort
Apparently it is XT456...
It was delivered there in 1987 and used for Battle Damage Repair Training, ex Royal Navy rather than RAF.
It was delivered there in 1987 and used for Battle Damage Repair Training, ex Royal Navy rather than RAF.
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 126
Likes: 31
From: Ayrshire
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
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
