A HAMPSHIRE RAF base is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its iconic aircraft.
A Chinook from RAF Odiham was painted to celebrate the anniversary, and was unveiled this week as the aircraft left its base for a routine training flight.
The huge helicopter on training flights is frequently seen and overheard across the Winchester district.
On board was the paint scheme designer and current Chinook pilot Flight Lieutenant Andy Donovan of 27 Squadron, RAF Odiham, who said: “It has been a great privilege to rejuvenate special liveries on the Chinook Force over the past five years.
"For a short time, this aircraft will be the centrepiece around which 40 years of incredible stories can be told. I am personally very proud to be associated with the Chinook and the professionalism displayed by all who contribute to getting this incredible aircraft into the air, wherever it may be needed.”