Japan’s Iwate prefecture orders an AW139 helicopter for firefighting
Japan’s Iwate prefecture orders an AW139 helicopter for firefighting
14 December 2014
published by www.aero-news.net
Japan — Aircraft To Be Delivered At The Beginning Of 2016
Iwate Prefecture in Japan has selected the AW139 twin-engine intermediate class helicopter for firefighting and disaster relief duties, replacing an aging model. The AW139, already a benchmark helicopter in Japan with 38 units in service, will be delivered to the customer at the beginning of 2016.
Iwate Prefecture Firefighting and Disaster Relief Agencys AW139 will be able to attack fires using a belly tank or Bambi bucket and will be equipped with a search light, cargo hook, rescue hoist, external loudspeakers and snow skids.
The AW139 has proven to be successful in Japan performing a wide range of public utility roles including search and rescue and coast guard duties with the Japan Coast Guard, law enforcement, firefighting and disaster relief with the Japan National Police Agency, Tokyo Metropolitan Police and Fire and Disaster Management Agency, as well as several prefectures and city authorities. All Nippon Helicopter (NHK) and Kansai TV have chosen the AW139 to carry out Electronic News Gathering (ENG) missions across the nation.
AgustaWestland says its success in the Japanese helicopter market continues to grow with strong sales in recent years across its complete commercial product range. AgustaWestland Japans headquarters, located in Tokyo, has been supporting the companys growing business in Japan since 2008. The helicopter fleet in Japan is also supported by four official service centers which provide maintenance and repair services.
