An RAF Boeing-Vertol CH-47 Chinook helicopter declared a general emergency near London on Wednesday, October 7, after transmitting the universal 7700 squawk code. The alert was issued at approximately 2,000 feet at 10.15pm.
Emergency signal details
The aircraft, identified as SHF482, broadcast the 7700 code, an international transponder signal recognised globally as indicating a general emergency. The code simultaneously alerts air traffic control centres in neighbouring regions to the aircraft's situation.
Precise information regarding the nature of the emergency has not been released.
Aircraft background
The Boeing CH-47 Chinook is a twin-engine, tandem-rotor heavy-lift helicopter designed by Vertol and manufactured by Boeing. It is operated by armed forces worldwide, including the UK, and can carry up to 24,000 pounds of internal freight or lift nearly 26,000 pounds via external sling-load.
Recent RAF security incident
The RAF has been under scrutiny following a 'terror' incident at Fairford base in Gloucestershire on September 27. Counter-terrorism officers launched an inquiry after vans were discovered near the facility. Five British citizens in their mid-20s detained near the base have been released on bail. A sixth individual, a dual UK-Iranian national aged 25, was arrested last week and also released on bail.
American military aircraft were withdrawn from the facility 'urgently' after the incident, which is thought to have been 'linked to Iran'. No10 has maintained that RAF Fairford remains secure despite the US pulling fighter jets from the base over safety fears.
The Express has contacted the RAF for additional information regarding the reason for the emergency declaration.
