National Police Air Service orders seven new Airbus helicopters

The National Police Air Service (NPAS) has confirmed an order for seven Airbus H135 helicopters, marking the first stage of a significant fleet renewal programme. The deal, signed with Airbus Helicopters through the BlueLight Commercial procurement agency, establishes Airbus as the exclusive supplier for NPAS for up to six years.

NPAS Chief Operating Officer and Accountable Manager Chief Superintendent Vicki White said: “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. The aircraft we currently operate were transferred to NPAS from individual police forces when the national service was formed over 13 years ago and, as such, they are some of the oldest and most-flown aircraft of their type in any UK 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.”

NPAS currently operates 16 H135 and four H145 helicopters from 14 locations across England and Wales, providing aerial support for the country’s 43 police forces. The service plays a crucial role in emergency response, surveillance, and public safety operations.

Richard Atack, Interim Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK, welcomed the deal, stating: “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 honour for us to continue playing this critical role in the nation’s security.”

The new helicopters will be equipped with Airbus’ advanced Helionix avionics system, which is designed to enhance safety and operational effectiveness by significantly reducing pilot workload. One of the aircraft will be used for training NPAS pilots in the new system before the full fleet enters service.

Airbus’ H135 model is widely used in emergency and law enforcement roles, with more than 1,440 aircraft in service globally, accumulating over 7.5 million flight hours. The NPAS renewal programme ensures that UK police forces will continue to have access to modern, reliable aerial support as the service looks ahead to the next decade.

NPAS has a base at Hawarden airport.