Have you spotted a Chinook helicopter flying around Lancashire this week?

If so, you’re not the only one as they have been spotted in various areas of the North West, including over Lancashire skies.

According to the RAF, they are being used for a military training operation called Exercise KUKRI DAWN.

It is run by 28 Squadron which is based at RAF Benson in Wallingford, Berkshire.

However, the helicopters will be temporarily operating from RAF Woodvale which is based in Liverpool.

Posting to Facebook, RAF Benson wrote: “Royal Air Force Chinook helicopters from RAF Benson will be operating from RAF Woodvale over the next two weeks as they conduct Exercise KUKRI DAWN.

“The exercise is the final part of the operational flying phase of the Chinook training course run by 28 Squadron based at RAF Benson.

“It will see Chinook helicopters training in the areas surrounding RAF Woodvale and RAF Leeming, which could include the Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, York and Middlesbrough areas.”

The aircraft will primarily be operating in the areas surrounding RAF Woodvale and RAF Leeming, which could include the Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, York and Middlesbrough areas.

While the flight paths are mainly in the Liverpool and Greater Manchester area, a spokesperson for RAF Benson said “it is possible that they will be seen operating in Lancashire”.

They added: “Our crews will always endeavour to vary their flying routes, both to maximise the training value and to ensure that no one area is unduly impacted by their training.”

Local people and regional papers have already revealed sightings of the helicopters hovering over parts of Preston, South Ribble and a Leyland park.

However, keep your eyes to the skies as the KUKRI DAWN training exercise will take place from now until Friday July 2.

They will be flying during RAF Woodvale’s normal operating hours of 0900 to 1700hrs, with no night flying expected.

They are most likely to be spotted in pairs.

What is the KUKRI DAWN exercise?

The Exercise is the final part of the operational flying phase of the Chinook training course run by 28 Squadron based at RAF Benson; the Operational Conversion Unit for the Puma and Chinook Forces. 

The course qualifies pilots and crewmen to operate the Chinook helicopter on operations within the UK and when deployed overseas. 

This is essential training providing key skills that will be required when they graduate from the Operational Conversion Unit and are posted to a front-line helicopter squadron. 

The operational phase of the course is the culmination of months of training by the students and, all being well, will see them return to RAF Benson ready to graduate. 

At times, the Chinook helicopters may be operating in pairs and may also train in urban environments, both of which are key skills for the crews. 

RAF Woodvale provides an excellent forward operating base for the Operational Conversion Unit. 

It also provides additional support to the training being undertaking by introducing the crews to operating in unfamiliar surroundings and a different environment.

Have you spotted a Chinook helicopter in Lancashire this week? Send your photos to: sarah.mcgee@newsquest.co.uk