Alouette 3 Retires.

[hedgehog]

HOw many are still flying

and how many are we keeping

what a great machine

but at this stage they are a bot like triggers broom

[Goldie fish]

Tomorrow after 44 years amazing service, in addition to the numerous lives saved, the Sturdy tadpole like sight will soon pass from our skies, at least those wearing the Roundel.

A ceremony will be held tomorrow to mark the withdrawal from service of the Air Corps Aerospatiale Alouette III, some of which first entered service in 1963. Expected to attent is Retired GOC Air Corps Brig Gen Mc Mahon, who was among the first pilots to bring the Aircraft home from france.

I think all will agree that these aircraft were possibly the best investment the Defence forces ever made.

Stand Down of the Alouette
19th September 2007

542 lives saved. 1,717 Search & Rescue Missions. 2,882 Air Ambulance Missions. 77,000 flying hours. 44 years service.

Widely considered to be one of the best helicopters ever produced in its class, the Air Corps will “stand-down” the Alouette III following 44 years service on Friday 21st September 2007. Deputy Chief of Staff, Major General Pat Nash accompanied by General Officer Commanding Air Corps, Brigadier General Ralph James will attend the ceremony at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel at 2.00 pm.

Purchased in 1963 as an “Air and Sea Rescue” helicopter the French made machine had an immediate impact. 542 people owe their lives to the skill of the rescue crews and helicopter’s versatility, in over 1,700 missions. 14 members of the Air Corps’ were decorated for outstanding bravery during some of these rescues. In addition, over 2,882 Air Ambulance missions were completed. The helicopter fleet was also deployed with the army on operations, particularly in border areas.

The Air Corps now operates a completely new fleet of Eurocopter EC135 and Agusta/Westland AW139 helicopters following this “stand-down” and the 2006 retirement of the Dauphin helicopter.

Fittingly the pilot who flew the first Alouette to Casement Aerodrome in 1963, Brigadier General Brian McMahon (retired), will be in attendance with over 500 guests. Former technicians and aircrew and a representation from the rescue community will then be treated to a flying display by the aircraft. At 3.00 pm, engines roaring, rotors spinning, the Alouettes will lift into the blue one last time so ending a glorious chapter of Air Corps history!

Members of the media are invited to this photocall as follows:

Day/Date: Friday 21st September 2007.
Location: Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel, Co. Dublin.
Time: 2:00 pm