First of all, thank you for the very informative post.
No worries though, if nothing else, I won't risk losing a MBT and a helicopter in one go.
I also tried parachuting them and it worked, though they got some damage, my guess is that this is also part of the game mechanics you explained, so I won't try that either, against another human or AI.
When you say up to a normal APC, that means no IFVs or AT-"APCs", right?
What about light tanks like the M24? Would you say it is a bit too much?
Hmm, after checking wiki, the CH47D can carry up to 27000 pounds, while the M24 weights 40000. I guess not. Besides, I don't think it would fit in there lol.