The Airbus H135 helicopter (formerly Eurocopter EC135) is one of the most successful light twin-engine helicopters worldwide, especially recognized for emergency medical services (EMS), law enforcement, and VIP transport missions.
Performance specifications and key features of the H135
Flight performance and engines
The H135 is designed for high performance even in hot and high-altitude conditions. It offers two main engine options: the Safran Arrius 2B2 plus or the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206B3, both controlled by a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system that reduces pilot workload and enhances safety. Its maximum speed (Vne) is approximately 259 km/h (140 knots), with a cruise speed around 252 km/h (136 knots).
Service ceiling and flight range: The maximum service ceiling is about 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).
Range: Approximately 633 km (342 nautical miles) with standard fuel tanks installed.
Endurance: Capable of continuous flight for about 3 hours and 35 minutes.
Maneuverability and safety
A notable feature of the H135 is its Fenestron tail rotor, which is enclosed within the tail boom.
Maneuverability is enhanced by the Bearingless Main Rotor system, providing quick and smooth control responses.
Safety is improved by the Fenestron, which reduces the risk of accidents during landings in confined areas and lowers noise levels, making it the quietest helicopter in its class.
Avionics include the Helionix system with a 4-axis autopilot, significantly easing pilot workload during critical situations.
Cost-effectiveness and reliability
Maintenance is designed with extended intervals, resulting in operating costs lower than those of older twin-engine models.
Versatility is provided by a flat cabin floor and clamshell rear doors, allowing quick loading of stretchers or cargo.
Reliability is demonstrated by over 7 million total flight hours worldwide and an availability rate exceeding 90%, making it a top choice for rescue agencies globally.
The H135 balances modern technology with affordable costs, ideal for missions requiring twin-engine safety with agility comparable to single-engine helicopters.
Japan's National Police Agency (NPA) has ordered three additional H135 helicopters as part of its continuous fleet modernization and development program. These helicopters will be deployed to police units in Hokkaido, Shimane, and Miyagi prefectures to enhance multi-role law enforcement capabilities, including patrol, search and rescue, and tactical transport missions. This latest procurement underscores the longstanding partnership between Airbus and the NPA, with a total of 26 Airbus aircraft currently in service with the agency.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters Japan, said, “We are honored that the National Police Agency of Japan continues to place its trust in the H135.” He added, “The H135 has consistently demonstrated high reliability and performance, making it an ideal platform for law enforcement missions. We are committed to providing comprehensive support to help the NPA effectively fulfill its critical nationwide responsibilities.”
This order follows the delivery of an H135 helicopter to Hiroshima Prefectural Police at the end of 2025. Currently, this aircraft operates alongside the agency’s AS365 helicopters, reflecting Airbus’s ability to seamlessly integrate its aircraft into complex operational environments.
The Airbus H135 light twin-engine helicopter incorporates the latest advanced technologies, including the Helionix avionics suite. This features a 4-axis autopilot and a redesigned cockpit to enhance situational awareness. The cockpit is equipped with three large electronic displays compatible with Night Vision Goggles (NVG) and includes a First Limit Indicator that presents critical engine data on a single screen, ensuring clarity and rapid pilot decision-making.
In Japan, H135 operators receive world-class standard training domestically at the Airbus Helicopters Japan’s full flight simulator center for the H135, located in Kobe.
Currently, 98 H135 helicopters operate throughout Japan, with 15 assigned to law enforcement missions. Globally, the H135 family remains a market leader, with over 1,600 aircraft in service and more than 8 million total flight hours across all mission types.