Airbus Expands H160 Presence in Japan with World’s First Firefighting Deployment for Hiroshima Fire Services

Airbus Expands H160 Presence in Japan with World’s First Firefighting Deployment for Hiroshima Fire Services

(IN BRIEF) Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H160 to the Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau, making it the world’s first firefighting operator of the model. Entering service in early 2026, the H160 will enhance firefighting, search and rescue, emergency medical, and disaster response operations in Hiroshima. The new aircraft replaces the AS365 N3, in service since 2006, and features advanced avionics, reduced noise, and improved maneuverability. Airbus Helicopters Japan Managing Director Jean-Luc Alfonsi and Fire Bureau Chief Hideki Sadamori emphasized the aircraft’s technological capabilities and life-saving potential. With over 65 years in Japan and about 380 helicopters supporting diverse missions nationwide, Airbus continues expanding the H160’s footprint, with additional units already operating or on order for public service roles.

(PRESS RELEASE) KOBE, Japan, 27-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Airbus Helicopters has delivered Japan’s first H160 to the Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau, marking the world’s first use of the advanced rotorcraft for firefighting operations. Scheduled to enter service in early 2026, the helicopter will undertake a broad range of public service missions, including aerial firefighting, search and rescue (SAR), emergency medical operations, and disaster response such as reconnaissance of affected areas.

Equipped with a firefighting bucket, the H160 will provide essential aerial support for ground firefighting teams, enhancing Hiroshima’s ability to manage wildfire suppression and emergency missions more efficiently.

“We take pride in being the first operator in the world to introduce the H160 for firefighting missions,” said Hideki Sadamori, Chief of the Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau. “We are confident in its advanced capabilities and performance to significantly enhance our city’s firefighting and disaster prevention operations. With this helicopter, we aim to save as many lives as possible.”

Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, added: “We are proud to see the H160 begin a new chapter in its multi-mission journey with Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau. This milestone demonstrates the trust in the H160’s technology and adaptability. Whether tackling wildfires, performing rescues, or supporting emergency medical missions, the H160 delivers precision, safety, and reliability under the most demanding conditions.”

The newly delivered aircraft will replace the AS365 N3, which has served Hiroshima City since 2006. Featuring next-generation avionics, reduced noise emissions, and improved maneuverability, the H160 brings a step-change in efficiency, safety, and crew comfort to Japan’s firefighting fleet.

Globally recognized as one of the most advanced multi-role helicopters, the H160 combines innovative design with superior operational safety and comfort. Its versatility enables deployment across diverse missions such as law enforcement, offshore transport, SAR, medical evacuation, business aviation, and news operations. The H160 is currently in service across multiple regions including Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Airbus Helicopters has been a trusted partner in Japan for more than 65 years, supporting approximately 380 helicopters engaged in a wide range of operations across the country. The H160 continues to gain momentum domestically, with three units already in operation — two for law enforcement and one for news gathering — and another aircraft on order for the Nagoya City Fire Bureau.

Media Contacts:

Belinda Ng
AIRBUS | Asia-Pacific
+65 9683 6361
belinda.ng@airbus.com

Takahiro Nosaka
AIRBUS | Japan
+81 90 9131 8046
takahiro.nosaka@airbus.com

Jennifer Steiner
AIRBUS | Helicopters
+33 6 28 08 69 75
Jennifer.Steiner@airbus.com

SOURCE: AIRBUS