Boeing’s CH-47 military transport helicopter is commonly known as the Chinook.
The Chinook is a heavy-lift helicopter recognized by its tandem-rotor layout, with one rotor at the front and another at the rear. This arrangement removes the need for a tail rotor and allows the aircraft to use much of its power for lifting cargo and troops.
The U.S. Army introduced the CH-47A in the 1960s. The helicopter has since served in transport, disaster relief, medical evacuation, construction, and combat-support roles. Its rear loading ramp and large cargo cabin make it suitable for vehicles, supplies, and other bulky equipment.
“Chinook” is the name of a Native American people and language group associated with the Pacific Northwest. The CH-47 is sometimes confused with the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, a smaller helicopter with a different design and mission emphasis.