The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has decommissioned its remaining six Bell UH-1H “Huey” helicopters after nearly six decades of service, holding a retirement ceremony Thursday at Benito Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. PAF spokesperson Col. Alvin Jay Capinguian said the move is part of the military’s modernization efforts, as the aging aircraft can no longer meet current operational requirements.
The Hueys, which first arrived in the Philippines in 1969, supported military operations, rescue efforts, and humanitarian missions nationwide. Their transport role has since been taken over by the PAF’s S-70i Black Hawk helicopters, which offer greater carrying capacity and more modern capabilities. The six retired aircraft were turned over to the Air Logistics and Support Command for storage pending their final disposition.
