The UK’s National Police Air Service (NPAS) has placed a firm order for seven Airbus H135 helicopters as part of the initial phase of its fleet renewal programme, according to a press release from Airbus Helicopters.
The contract, signed through the BlueLight Commercial procurement agency, establishes Airbus as the exclusive helicopter supplier for NPAS for up to six years. The new aircraft will replace some of the oldest and most-used police helicopters in the UK fleet, which were originally transferred from individual forces when NPAS was formed over 13 years ago.
Chief Superintendent Vicki White, NPAS Chief Operating Officer and Accountable Manager, stated: “With over 100 calls for air support each day, the National Police Air Service plays a unique and valuable role in saving lives, disrupting criminality and protecting communities.” She added that NPAS looks forward to working with Airbus on the project and expects to receive the first of the new aircraft in 2027.
Airbus, which has been the sole provider of helicopters for NPAS since its formation, welcomed the contract award. “We are extremely proud to have been the sole provider of NPAS’ helicopters since its formation and we greatly appreciate the continued confidence it is showing by awarding Airbus Helicopters its first fleet renewal contract,” said Richard Atack, Interim Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK.
NPAS currently operates 16 Airbus H135s and four H145s from 14 locations across England and Wales, providing air support for 43 police forces. Airbus also provides maintenance and support for NPAS aircraft, which are among the most intensively used police helicopters in the world.
The newly acquired H135s will be fitted with Airbus’ Helionix avionics system, designed to enhance safety and operational effectiveness by significantly reducing pilot workload. One of the helicopters will be dedicated to training pilots in the new system before the full fleet enters operational service.
I’m making over $20k a month working part time. i kept hearing other people tell me how much money they can make online so i decided to look into it. well, it was all true and has totally changed my life. this is
what i do….. http://Www.Works6.Com
Well Julia earned and received $19,683 by working online from home. In previous month she got this income just by doing work for 2 hours maximum a day using her laptop. You’ll find her on these boards if you keep looking.
They have a total of 19 H135 and H145, plus 4 Vulcanair P68R aircraft, covering England and Wales.
It will be interesting to see whether they order more fixed wing aircraft and reduce helicopter numbers to reduce costs. That may even improve availability, which hasn’t been good.
I believe the Met also operate 3 Cessna from Farnborough. G-TDSA / G-BVJT / G-UKAL.
🤫 can’t talk about them
I know. But it’s been open source for a few years, so I can.
I’d assume connected with the role of the Northolt Stn Flt.
I was putting humour out there. Apologies……Agree it is a very known fleet …… that doesn’t exist