Midweek Sortie 33: CH-47 Chinook—The Heavy-Lift Legend That Carries EVERYTHING

From Vietnam’s jungle clearings to Afghanistan’s mountain valleys, the Chinook has gone wherever the fight demanded, lifting the loads no other helicopter could carry.

“That aircraft was designed to haul something we don’t even have anymore, but it is still so valid. It is so versatile at all altitudes, with internal and external loads. It’s an outstanding capability.”

—Maj. Gen. William "Tim" Crosby, program executive officer for Aviation

A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter carrying local civic leaders takes off during a “Headquarters for a Day” event at Montana Air National Guard Base, Great Falls, Montana, July 23, 2026. The program immersed participants in installation operations, offering insight into the people, equipment and missions that support the Montana National Guard. (U.S. Air National Guard)

Rumble rolling across Afghan ridges, echoing like distant thunder. Suddenly, its silhouette sweeps into view, twin rotors slicing the thin mountain air, stirring up a storm of dust and debris. From the open hatch, the flight engineer directs the pilots with practiced ease, lowering the bird toward waiting cargo: water, fuel, ammo, the lifeblood for soldiers cut off from civilization.