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Boeing employee achieves record 5,000 CH-47 Chinook flight hours

Boeing Press Release | June 9, 2021

Estimated reading time 3 minutes, 53 seconds.

No dream is too big for Boeing employee Greg Maiden who has accomplished a record 5,000 flight hours aboard the CH-47 Chinook – the first Australian to achieve the honor.

Former Australian Army technician avionics and current Boeing aircrewman technician instructor, Greg Maiden from the School of Army Aviation has completed 5000 hours of flying in the CH-47 Chinook at RAAF Base Townsville, Queensland. Commonwealth of Australia Photo

Maiden – a current reservist who served with the Australian Army for 28 years before joining Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) in 2016 as a CH-47F Chinook aircrew technician and instructor – achieved the milestone on 15th March.

He’s proudly worked on the CH-47 capability at 5th Aviation Regiment, RAAF Base Townsville for more than 25 years, including his Army background as an avionics technician. He now joins a unique, worldwide club of CH-47 Chinook aircrew who’ve also achieved the record flight hours.

As a specialized technician, Maiden is a qualified tradesperson who can both operate and maintain the CH-47F.

He’s part of the BDA team that delivers the CH-47F Chinook Integrated Support Services (CISS) contract to the 10 aircraft operated out of the Australian Army’s C Squadron at 5th Aviation Regiment.

Maiden’s record 5,000 CH-47 flight hours was honored by the Army with a traditional water arch – a form of salute which typically involves two firefighting rigs spraying arcs of water over an arriving or departing flight as a sign of respect and honor.

“There are very few who have achieved this milestone,” Maiden said. “The 5,000 flying hours have been accrued over my flying career which started in 1999 on the CH-47D.”

During his time with the ADF, Maiden completed six tours with Rotary Wing Group (RWG) as part of Operation SLIPPER in Afghanistan.

“I joined the Army at 19 and it was the best decision I’ve ever made,” he said.

“I love flying and fixing the aircraft. My father instilled in me a love of all things aviation – and I particularly love flying in the Chinook as it is super reliable.

“I’m humbled and honored to have achieved this momentous milestone.”

Commander 16th Aviation Brigade, Brigadier David Hafner CSC commented: “Every day, our people across the Army aviation capability pull on their uniforms, live our values and do exceptional work on behalf of our nation.

“Maiden’s contribution to Army and as a defense contractor is meaningful and truly appreciated.”

This press release was prepared and distributed by Boeing.

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