British Army Apache makes precautionary landings two days in a row
A British Army Apache AH-64, one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world, has had to make precautionary landings on two days in a row.
The Army confirmed there was no danger to the public or the aircrew when the Apache helicopter had to land prematurely on one occasion - and then again the following day.
The aircraft was taking part in Exercise Cobra Warrior but had to land in Kirkby Lonsdale in Cumbria and then the village of Caton in Lancashire the next day.
Upon landing in Caton, the Apache was greeted by nearby members of the public who were shown round the aircraft by the crew. One lucky schoolboy was even allowed to see inside the cockpit.
An Army spokesperson said: "We can confirm that an Apache helicopter was required to make two separate precautionary landings.
"These were due to the same technical issue and at no stage was there any danger to the public or the aircrew involved."
While the specifics of the technical issue have not been commented on by the Ministry of Defence, the aircraft has returned to Nesscliffe Training Area.
The landowners were made aware of the situation and co-operated with the recovery of the Apache.
Members of the public who were lucky enough to be near the Apache when it landed took pictures and spoke with the pilots about the aircraft.
The Apache AH-64 has been used by the British Army in Libya, Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Army is currently upgrading its fleet, bringing the new Apache AH-64E into frontline service.
The AH-64E replaces the Apache Mk.1, which entered service in 2001 and proved itself to be a battle-winning asset.
The E variant provides a state-of-the-art attack aviation capability that will be a key element of how the Army fights in the coming decades, as set out in the Future Soldier programme.
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