One of the Royal Air Force’s most iconic workhorses, the Puma helicopter, has lifted off from RAF Benson for the very last time, marking the beginning of an emotional farewell tour around the UK.
After 54 years of steadfast service, the much-loved aircraft is bowing out — and the skies just won’t be the same without her.
Since entering service in 1971, the Puma has carved its name into military history with a reputation for speed, agility, and sheer versatility. From front-line battlefields to disaster zones, it’s been the RAF’s unsung hero, ferrying troops, rescuing the injured, and delivering vital supplies across the globe.
On 26 March, RAF Benson — the spiritual home of the Puma fleet — waved off the helicopters for the final time. Crowds of personnel and veterans gathered on the tarmac to salute the aircraft as it thundered skyward one last time, kicking off a commemorative tour of key locations tied to its storied history.
“The aircraft has been a cornerstone of global Defence Operations for more than five decades,” said Wing Commander Nick Monahan, Officer Commanding 33 Squadron and Puma Force Commander. “We want to celebrate its contribution to supporting our people around the world over the past 54 years.”
The farewell flight route included:
- Northern Ireland, where the Puma played a key role during The Troubles.
- Kensington Palace, to honour Prince Michael of Kent’s historic ties to the Puma fleet.
- RAF sites like Cranwell, Halton, Honington, Shawbury and STANTA, deeply linked to Puma aircrew training and operations.
- Boscombe Down and Airbus Kidlington, vital to the maintenance and tech evolution of the fleet.
The tour serves as a swan song for an aircraft that’s been nothing short of legendary.
From Kenya (2009–2011) to Afghanistan (2015–2021), Hurricane Irma relief in 2017, and even during COVID-19 efforts in 2020 under Operation RESCRIPT — the Puma has been at the heart of countless missions. In its final chapter, it has remained active in Cyprus and Brunei, proving its worth to the very end.
“We recognise and celebrate the dedication of everyone who has served on or supported Puma operations over the last five decades,” said Wing Commander Alice Tierney, Station Commander at RAF Benson.
As of 31 March 2025, the Puma will officially retire, making way for the new H145 Jupiter HC2 helicopters, which are expected to enter service in Cyprus and Brunei from 2026. In the interim, two Chinooks will be deployed to Cyprus to maintain firefighting capability.
But the legacy of the Puma won’t fade with its final flight.
From battlefield troop transport, logistics and MedEvac, to disaster relief and search-and-rescue missions, the Puma has done it all. Notably, during Operation TORAL in Afghanistan, it clocked over 12,800 flying hours, carried 126,000 passengers, and moved 660,000 kg of freight — a jaw-dropping testament to its endurance.
And it’s not just brute force — the Puma’s ability to squeeze into tight landing zones with a minimal noise footprint has made it a tactical darling among troops.
Its deployment in Brunei since 2022 and in Cyprus since 2023 saw it taking on firefighting, emergency response and military transport — proving even in its final years that it remained mission-critical.
As the rotor blades slowly fall silent, what’s left is a proud legacy, etched into every life the Puma has touched.
Goodnight, Pumas. You’ve done the RAF proud.
COMING NEXT
- Puma replaced by H145 Jupiter HC2 from 2026.
- Long-term: a New Medium Helicopter programme is underway to fully replace the Puma’s role.
Main Image: Pictured: 33 Squadron Puma flying over the London Stadium as part of their final flypast over the UK. Photographer: AS1 Christian Sparks RAF UK MOD © Crown copyright 2025 MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
