Pumas make farewell flypast overs Cyprus after remarkable 54 years of service
Two RAF Puma helicopters have flown across Cyprus to bid farewell after a remarkable 54 years of service.
After two years on the island, the aircraft is retiring at the end of the month.
The Pumas have served the community in Cyprus by helping with aerial firefighting, emergency responses and transporting troops.
It was a poignant moment for 84 Squadron too, particularly Sergeant Michael Fellows, one of the crewmen.
Sgt Michael Fellows said the aircraft "means so much to a lot of people".
He went on to say that the flypast coincided with his last day in the Royal Air Force as he waves goodbye to the service too.
"And then personally, for me, it's my last day in the Air Force, as well," he said.
"And over the next few days, once we've actually wrapped up the Puma, I think that's where probably [it will] sink in a bit more of the achievements that I've had on this aircraft and my time in the Air Force, as well."
Flight Lieutenant Gordon Cumming, who was one of the 84 Squadron pilots on the farewell flight, commented that the flypast was a "little bit sombre" and that everyone was "sad" to see the Puma be retired.
Flt Lt Cumming told BFBS Forces News what it was like to fly the famous helicopter.
"It's a lot like driving a sports car. It's a fantastically manoeuvrable helicopter," he said.
"It enjoys going fast and enjoys climbing and descending in fun and imaginative ways."
The Puma HC2 helicopter, which can carry 16 passengers at a time, has been used to move troops, weapons, and ammunition on the battlefield while in service.
It can also carry close to two tonnes of freight, which the helicopter can hold as internal cargo or underslung.
The brand-new H145 helicopter will take over from the iconic Puma in 2026 and will be deployed in Cyprus and Brunei.
Flypasts have taken place in Brunei, England, Wales and Northern Ireland to the Puma's retirement.
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