Boeing CH-47F Chinook

The tandem-rotor heavy lifter built for modern battlefields

Editorial Team

Overview

Boeing Helicopters United States Military: CH-47F 1962–Present $32 million

The Boeing CH-47F Chinook represents the latest evolution of one of the world’s most recognizable heavy-lift helicopters. Designed to move troops, vehicles, and equipment in demanding environments, it combines decades of operational experience with modern avionics and improved performance. Its distinctive twin-rotor layout remains central to military air mobility operations worldwide.

Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Honeywell 55-GA-714A
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
2 × 4,733 shp · 3,529 kW
Avionics
Rockwell Collins Avionics
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
55
Crew
—
Cabin width
7 ft 6 in  ·  2.29 m
Cabin height
6 ft 6 in  ·  1.98 m
Cabin length
30 ft 6 in  ·  9.30 m
Exterior length
98 ft 9 in  ·  30.10 m
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
60 ft 0 in  ·  18.30 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
50,000 lb  ·  22,700 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
24,000 lb  ·  10,900 kg
Fuel capacity
1,030 gal · 3,900 L · 3,100 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
155 kt  ·  178 mph  ·  287 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
400 nm  ·  460 mi  ·  740 km
Fuel burn
0.39 nm/gal  ·  0.19 km/L
Ceiling
20,000 ft  ·  6,100 m
Rate of climb
1,522 ft/min  ·  8 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Operational Context

Boeing CH-47F Chinook — modernizing a heavy-lift legend

The CH-47F Chinook is an advanced variant of the long-serving CH-47 series, originally introduced in the 1960s. The F-model, first delivered in the early 2000s, was developed to enhance reliability, survivability, and mission capability while extending the platform’s operational lifespan. It incorporates a strengthened airframe, upgraded systems, and digital avionics to meet contemporary battlefield requirements.

Powered by two Honeywell T55-GA-714A turboshaft engines, the CH-47F delivers substantial lifting power, enabling it to carry troops, artillery pieces, light vehicles, and heavy cargo. The tandem rotor configuration eliminates the need for a tail rotor, improving lifting efficiency and stability during hover and sling-load operations. This design allows the Chinook to transport payloads exceeding 20,000 pounds under favorable conditions.

The CH-47F features a fully integrated digital cockpit with advanced navigation and communication systems. These upgrades improve situational awareness and reduce pilot workload, particularly during night or adverse-weather operations. The helicopter is also capable of being equipped with defensive systems and mission-specific equipment to support diverse roles.

Operated by the United States Army and numerous international forces, the CH-47F continues to serve in combat operations, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief efforts. Its combination of lift capacity, durability, and modernization ensures that the Chinook remains a critical asset in global military aviation.