The UK’s National Police Air Service (NPAS) has placed an order for an additional two Airbus H135 helicopters.
The new order is said to bring the total fleet renewal programme to nine H135s.
NPAS orders Airbus H135s
The firm order comes under the original 2025 Framework Contract signed with the BlueLight Commercial procurement agency, which confirms Airbus as the exclusive supplier of helicopters for NPAS for up to six years.
“These aircraft will provide a modern, resilient and effective capability for policing, supporting our crews as they respond to incidents, assist officers on the ground and protect the public,” said Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney, NPAS Accountable Manager.
“Programmes of this scale are only possible through the dedication and professionalism of many people working behind the scenes.
“I would like to thank colleagues across NPAS, Airbus and BlueLight Commercial, whose expertise and commitment have helped bring us to this important point.
“Together with our partners, we are building a fleet that will serve policing and the public for many years to come, ensuring NPAS remains ready to meet the evolving demands of operational policing.”
“A best-in-class standard”
“Building on decades of UK design and customisation expertise, Airbus Helicopters in the UK will play a key role in helping to bring the UK’s police helicopter fleet to a best-in-class standard, equipped with the latest security and policing technology,” added Richard Atack, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK.
NPAS currently operates 16 H135 and four H145 helicopters on behalf of the 43 police forces in England and Wales.
More than 1,470 H135s are in service worldwide and have exceeded 8 million hours with over 325 customers.
