Wild video shows Chinook CH-47 performing a 'handbrake turn' while flying at air show
Published on Jun 06, 2026 at 10:07 PM (UTC+4)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on Jun 06, 2026 at 10:07 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Mason Jones
This is the remarkable moment that a Chinook CH-47 performed a ‘handbrake turn’ while performing at an air show.
It all went down at the RAF Wadding Air Show in 2009.
Had it not been taken 17 years ago, you would have sworn this video was AI.
And aviation fans were left stunned by the daring display.
There’s nothing like seeing a Chinook CH-47 in action
The Chinook CH-47 is a tandem-rotor helicopter manufactured by Boeing for use in more than 20 international operators, including the U.S. Army and Britain’s Royal Air Force.
They serve an important role transporting troops, serving in medical evacuations, and aiding in disaster relief.
People would no doubt recognize Chinooks from a military movie – but are they renowned for their aerodynamics?
You’d be surprised.
Do you remember the time a pilot brought some flair to the runway and performed a wheelie?
There was definitely some showboating going on there.
But that’s nothing compared to what went down at RAF Wadding Air Show in 2009.
The video, shared to YouTube by PerryMason5410, showed a Chinook taking to the skies.
As it made its ascent, it started to slow down and then something truly remarkable happened.
In what appeared to be a handbrake turn, it turned around and swooped down.
Aviation fans were blown away by this demonstration of skill
You could say a lot of things about the Chinook CH-47, but ‘nimble’ isn’t a word we would usually use.
So to see it used in such a way was truly extraordinary.
Viewers were left stunned by what they’d just witnessed.
“Someone tell that fighter pilot he’s flying a Chinook,” one viewer wrote.
“Imagine being in that Chinook looking up at 45 degree angle and then looking down at another 45 in less than five seconds,” another commented.
We’ve seen some epic displays of skill at air shows over the years.
Whether it’s an Embraer in Paris or an F-22 Raptor at Arctic Thunder, there’s always something for aviation fans to feast their eyes on.
Ben joined Supercar Blondie in February 2025 after being published by international organizations including LADbible, The Sun, the New York Post, and the Daily Mail. He covers supercars, rare and collectible vehicles, aviation, luxury assets, and the fascinating people behind them. His reporting has explored everything from seven-figure supercars and historic Ferrari collections to unusual aircraft adventures and extraordinary automotive discoveries from around the world. Ben has also gained first-hand insight into vehicle craftsmanship and customization, including visiting specialist workshops to see bespoke vehicles up close.
