Tokyo Fire Department confirms new Airbus H225 purchase
The Tokyo Fire Department has selected Airbus to supply a new H225 helicopter following a competitive tender.
The French manufacturer stated the aircraft will replace an older model as part of a broader upgrade programme.
According to Airbus, the new helicopter will be used for emergency medical response, aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and disaster recovery operations.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, said the selection built on a longstanding relationship: “For nearly six decades, Airbus has stood alongside the Tokyo Fire Department in their unwavering commitment to public safety and disaster response.”
Alfonsi added: “The Tokyo Fire Department’s continued trust in the H225 reflects the reliability and adaptability that our helicopters bring to every mission.
“With its proven versatility and endurance across all conditions, the H225 is well equipped to support their lifesaving work for years to come.”
Helicopter capabilities for emergency deployment
Airbus explained that the Tokyo Fire Department’s new H225 is configured to support a range of lifesaving missions.
The helicopter includes search and rescue technology with rapid detection capability, and has built-in systems to support onboard medical intervention.
A belly-mounted tank system allows for aerial firefighting deployments.
The company said the helicopter is equipped for both speed and precision, with operational flexibility across different emergency conditions.
History of Tokyo Fire Department aviation operations
The Tokyo Fire Department began its helicopter operations in 1967 using an Allouette III.
According to Airbus, the department currently operates three H225 helicopters and three AS365 aircraft.
The agency has worked with Airbus since its aviation unit was established.
The existing fleet supports emergency missions across the Tokyo metropolitan area, including natural disaster response and rescue.
H225 design features and technical systems
Airbus stated that the H225 is designed to offer extended range and heavy-lift capacity.
The company said the aircraft is part of the Super Puma family and is equipped with advanced avionics and autopilot systems.
These systems are designed to reduce pilot workload and increase operational safety, particularly in high-risk deployments.
According to Airbus, the helicopter’s design has been refined through its use in military and parapublic service operations.
Broader use of H225 helicopters in Japan
Airbus reported that 24 H225 helicopters are currently in use across Japan.
These aircraft are operated by the Ministry of Defence and several government agencies.
Uses include VIP travel, logistics, and emergency response across the country.
Airbus said the aircraft’s range of capabilities makes it suitable for operations in both civilian and defence contexts.
Airbus H225 helicopter to support Tokyo Fire Department emergency response: Summary
The Tokyo Fire Department has selected Airbus to supply an H225 helicopter.
Airbus announced the contract on 29 July 2025.
The helicopter will replace an older model as part of a fleet renewal programme.
It will support missions including firefighting, search and rescue, and emergency medical response.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, said the department had a long-standing relationship with Airbus.
The H225 includes a belly tank for firefighting and onboard medical stretchers.
The department’s helicopter operations began in 1967.
Its current fleet includes three H225s and three AS365s.
Airbus said the H225 includes autopilot systems and long-range capability.
Across Japan, 24 H225 helicopters are operated by government agencies and the Ministry of Defence.