The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has long relied on the Super Huey, a military utility helicopter formally known as the Bell UH‑1H Iroquois, as one of its most versatile aircraft. Originally manufactured by Bell Helicopter Textron in the United States, the UH‑1H is an upgraded version of the iconic Huey, boasting more powerful engines and enhanced lifting capacity.
With a crew of one to two pilots and the capacity to carry up to 13 passengers or troops, the Super Huey is a flexible platform for a wide range of missions. It is powered by a single Lycoming T53‑L‑13 turboshaft engine and can reach speeds of up to 135 knots (around 250 km/h), with a maximum range of roughly 580 km. The helicopter can fly as high as 19,390 feet (5,900 meters) and, depending on the mission, can be equipped with machine guns or rocket pods. In most humanitarian and transport operations, however, it flies unarmed.
The PAF has deployed the Super Huey in numerous roles over the decades. Beyond transporting troops and personnel during combat or peacekeeping operations, the helicopter is often called upon for search and rescue missions, including responding to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes. It also serves as a medical evacuation (medevac) aircraft, ferrying injured soldiers or civilians, and delivers essential supplies to communities affected by calamities.
One of the Super Huey’s biggest advantages is its versatility and durability. Its ability to take off and land in short or rugged spaces makes it indispensable in remote areas, while its long‑standing service record has proven it reliable for both military and civilian missions. However, the PAF’s Super Huey fleet is aging, with some units over 40 years old, which requires regular maintenance. Compared to modern medium‑lift helicopters, it has limitations in speed and payload, but its proven track record keeps it relevant in the PAF’s operations.
Over the years, the Super Huey has been deployed not only in combat missions against insurgents but also in inter‑island transport and disaster relief efforts, including typhoon response across the archipelago. For decades, it has remained a steadfast workhorse in the Philippine skies,a symbol of the PAF’s commitment to service, both in times of conflict and in times of need.
Tragically, that service was underscored in a recent incident when a Super Huey helicopter crashed on November 4, 2025, in the environs of Loreto, Agusan del Sur while on a humanitarian mission supporting communities affected by Typhoon Tino (international name Typhoon Kalmaegi). Search and rescue operations recovered six bodies from the crash site.
The incident is a stark reminder of the risks facing even longstanding aircraft and crews dedicated to relief efforts in severe weather‑conditions.
