87 HFS
	87 Helicopter Flying School
	Motto:	Docemus.
	Meaning:	We Teach.

Initially known as the Helicopter Conversion Unit flying both the Alouette II and III, it was formed on 1 February 1968, by renaming one of 17 Sqdn’s flights based at Ysterplaat. In 1973 it was renamed as 87 HFS and in 1978 moved to AFB Bloemspruit. At a time it was also known as 87 Advanced Flying School. The choice was very logical as the area is in close vicinity of Armour units of the SANDF and offer rugged mountainous training area which is one of the main areas of expertise of any SAAF chopper crew. In addition being inland also provides training in the “hot & high” climate prevailed throughout most of South Africa. It is important to note the unit is not only used for training, but provides a fully fledged helicopter squadron for use in search & rescue and aerial support to the SANDF and SA Police Service.