NPAS orders seven new Airbus H135 helicopters
The UK’s National Police Air Service (NPAS) has placed an order for seven H135 helicopters with manufacturer Airbus
The order is the first under a new framework contract signed between Airbus and procurement agency BlueLight Commercial, which confirms Airbus as the exclusive supplier of NPAS helicopters for up to six years.
The new helicopters will be equipped with Airbus’ Helionix avionics system, and one aircraft will initially be used to train NPAS pilots in the use of the new system.
NPAS currently operates 16 H135s and four H145 helicopters from 14 sites across England and Wales. Airbus Helicopters already provides maintenance and support to the existing helicopter fleet.
“We very much look forward to working with Airbus on this exciting project and anticipate receiving the first of our seven new aircraft in 2027,” said Vicki White, Chief Operating Officer and Accountable Manager Chief Superintendent at NPAS.
Richard Atack, Interim Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK, added: “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. It is a great honor for us to continue playing this critical role in the nation’s security.”
NPAS also recently selected Schiebel to conduct beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) trials using uncrewed aerial vehicles.