Charter & Fractional
Korean Forest Service Orders Columbia's New-build 234 Chinook
The sale reflects Columbia Helicopter's emphasis on manufacturing, overhauling, and upgrading the venerable family of heavy-lift rotorcraft.
Columbia Helicopters' Model 234 Multi-Mission Chinook aircraft.
Columbia Helicopters is finding demand for new-build versions of its 234 Multi-Mission Chinook aircraft. (Photo: Columbia Helicopters)

The Korean Forest Service has ordered a Columbia Model 234 Multi-Mission Chinook for roles including firefighting, cargo lift, transportation, and disaster response. The aircraft will be among the first new-build examples of the heavy-lift model manufactured by Columbia Helicopters and includes new features such as a glass cockpit, engine monitoring, and night vision goggle compatibility to help pilots deal with degraded visual environments.

Under the contract announced at the Heli-Expo show on Tuesday, Oregon-based Columbia (Booth 6427) will train Korean pilots and mechanics. It will also supply parts, special tools, and ground support equipment.