NPAS reviews new helicopters as fleet replacement programme progresses

Senior figures from the National Police Air Service (NPAS) have visited an Airbus Helicopters’ production site in Germany to review progress on the next generation of aircraft set to replace the UK’s police aviation fleet.

The delegation travelled to the company’s facility in Donauwörth last month as part of ongoing oversight of the NPAS fleet replacement programme, which aims to modernise the helicopters used to support policing operations across the UK.

NPAS said the visit allowed leaders to examine build quality, discuss engineering standards and ensure the aircraft will meet the operational requirements of UK policing.

The delegation included Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney, NPAS Accountable Manager; Glenn Shelley, Head of Business Services; and Bruce Cooper, Head of Technical Services. They met Airbus production, engineering and support teams, toured the factory floor and viewed the first aircraft currently under construction.

Representatives from Airbus UK also attended, as they will integrate specialist mission systems and equipment tailored to UK police operations.

NPAS confirmed that the first two helicopters are expected to arrive at Airbus UK’s facility in Oxford at the end of February.

One aircraft, designated G-NPAA, will enter the modification programme soon after arrival. Another, G-NPAS, will initially be used to help develop the Approved Training Organisation manual and training framework for the new type before later joining the wider fleet conversion programme.

Pilot training on the new aircraft is scheduled to begin in early March as part of a phased introduction. NPAS said none of the helicopters will be dedicated solely to training, with all expected to support operational roles once the rollout is complete.

The visit comes amid sustained demand for police air support, which plays a key role in surveillance, search operations and emergency response. Airbus’ current orderbook, which includes new H135 helicopters for UK policing, reflects continued national investment in airborne capability.

NPAS said the introduction of new aircraft will help ensure police aviation services can continue supporting frontline operations across the UK for years to come.

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