Boeing engine started in 1943 and Boeing's gas turbines were designated models 502 (T50), 520 (T60), 540, 551 and 553. Boeing built 2,461 engines before production ceased in April 1968. Many applications of the Boeing gas turbine engines were considered to be firsts, including the first turbine-powered helicopter and boat. Vertol Aircraft Corporation was acquired by Boeing in 1960, and was reorganized as Boeing's Vertol division. The twin-rotor CH-47 Chinook, produced by Vertol, took its first flight in 1961. This heavy-lift helicopter remains a work-horse vehicle to the present day. In 1964, Vertol also began production of the CH-46 Sea Knight.
Defence Helicopter Flying School devices (provided by CAE Inc.) and two virtual reality trainers and a mock Chinook cabin. All aircrew instruction is carried out by Central Flying School (Helicopters) (CFS(H)) Instructors. These Instructors are a mix of military and civilian personnel personnel. The DHFS uses grass airfields at Ternhill and Chetwynd for helicopter training, both are located in Shropshire. Defence Helicopter Flying School The Defence Helicopter Flying School is a military flying school based at RAF Shawbury in Shropshire, England. The school is a tri-service organisation and trains helicopter aircrews for all three British armed forces, using the Airbus Juno HT1 and Airbus