Why do military helicopters fly up and down the river thames in London every day?

Question

I have noticed this for the last few weeks, that helicopters continue to fly up and down the river thames. Only last week I saw 2 apache gunships doing a full circle over blackfriars bridge, right outside my office. Theres been chinooks, seakings etc etc and they just come and go. What are they doing? Can someone fill me in?

Answer 1

It's easier than them trying to sail up the Thames.

Answer 2

yes!! i can fill you in on this. there's been a lot of  jellied eels smuggled out of  London. the home office recons Bin Laden has developed a taste for them and their desperate to cut off he's supply. what is he talking about above? ....most of the terrorists are living here in councill houses drawing social security.

Answer 3

training. London is probably the no.1 terrorist target in the world - they need to be ready. Plus, if i had an apache, i'd fly it up and down the thames all day showing off.  

Answer 4

there are military bases in the london area.  when the skies are full of planes landing at london airports the helicopters have to wait for their approach to be safe, so they use sky 'lanes' to fly around safely until they can approach their landing zone.

Answer 5

Helicopters are required to follow the line of the River as much as possible.

Might be a certain Royals taxi service?

Answer 6

Military helicopter aircrew are required to be familiar with flying in complex airspace and this is afforded by the Heathrow and London area.

When there is other landing traffic at City or Heathrow the helicopters are required to hold their position until it is clear to proceed.  It is safer to fly an orbit than to hover in case of an engine failure.

There are also several places that they are required to land in the Thames area as well.

Hope this helps!  

Answer 7

They can be on manoeuvres as Parliament is not far from there, and military would have to be on hand in case of terrorist threats. I used to see them down there all the time when i worked in the area.

I also saw them once do a flying display, part of a large pageant along the Thames some years back.

Answer 8

training it's not always top secret.

Answer 9

probably prince willie

Answer 10

i heard they're looking for a fugitive who swam down the river.... goes by the name of michael phelps.... you seem you let me know please

Answer 11

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