MRO & Manufacturing
Hiroshima First to Use Airbus H160 Helicopter for Firefighting Missions
Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau adopts Airbus H160 helicopter for firefighting, enhancing Japan’s emergency response with advanced aerial technology.
Hiroshima’s Fire Services Bureau Makes History with Airbus H160
In a landmark move for urban firefighting and disaster response, the Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau has become the world’s first operator of the Airbus H160 helicopter for firefighting missions. This acquisition marks a significant technological leap forward, positioning the city at the forefront of public safety innovation. The new aircraft, delivered on October 27, 2025, is set to replace an aging Airbus AS365 N3 that has served the bureau faithfully since 2006. The transition to the H160 platform is not merely a fleet upgrade; it represents a fundamental enhancement of the city’s capacity to protect and save lives in a multitude of emergency scenarios.
The introduction of the H160 into Hiroshima’s emergency services fleet underscores a broader trend of modernization within Japan’s public safety agencies. The decision reflects a growing confidence in advanced aerial solutions to tackle the complex challenges of modern urban and natural disasters. As cities face increasing risks from fires, earthquakes, and other emergencies, the need for versatile, high-performance equipment has never been more critical. The H160, with its multi-mission capabilities, is designed to meet these demands head-on, offering a single platform for firefighting, search and rescue, emergency medical services, and disaster reconnaissance.
This pioneering step by Hiroshima is being watched closely by emergency response units worldwide. The successful integration and deployment of the H160 will serve as a crucial case study for other municipalities considering similar upgrades. The helicopter is scheduled to officially enter service in early 2026, equipped with a specialized firefighting bucket to aid in wildfire suppression and support ground crews. Its performance in the demanding operational landscape of Hiroshima will set a new benchmark for aerial firefighting and public service missions.
A New Era of Aerial Response Technology
The Airbus H160 is widely regarded as one of the most technologically advanced helicopters in the world. Its design incorporates state-of-the-art avionics and a suite of features that deliver a step-change in operational capability and safety compared to previous-generation aircraft. For the Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau, this translates into more effective and efficient mission execution. The advanced systems provide pilots with superior situational awareness, which is crucial when operating in challenging environments such as dense urban areas or remote, disaster-stricken regions.
Performance is a key differentiator for the H160. It boasts enhanced maneuverability and a significantly reduced acoustic footprint, making it more suitable for operations in populated areas where noise pollution is a concern. The helicopter is powered by Safran Arrano 1A turbines, which are noted for their fuel efficiency, offering a 15% reduction in fuel consumption. This efficiency extends the aircraft’s operational range and endurance, allowing crews to stay on mission longer without refueling, a critical advantage during large-scale emergencies.
The versatility of the H160 platform is one of its most compelling attributes. While Hiroshima will be the first to deploy it for firefighting, the helicopter was designed from the ground up for multi-mission adaptability. It can be rapidly configured for various roles, including law enforcement, search and rescue, and emergency medical transport. This flexibility ensures that the aircraft is a valuable asset across the entire spectrum of public safety operations, providing a robust and reliable tool for first responders. The model for Hiroshima will be specifically outfitted to handle the rigors of aerial firefighting, a testament to its adaptable design.
“We take pride in being the first operator in the world to introduce the H160 for firefighting missions. We are confident in its advanced capabilities and performance to significantly enhance and strengthen our city’s firefighting and disaster prevention activities. With this helicopter, we will make every effort to save as many lives as possible.”, Hideki Sadamori, Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau Chief.
Growing Momentum in Japan’s Public Safety Sector
The adoption of the H160 by Hiroshima is not an isolated event but rather a clear indicator of a strategic shift within Japan’s emergency services. The country’s public safety agencies are increasingly turning to advanced technology to bolster their response capabilities. Prior to this delivery, three other H160s were already operational in Japan, two for law enforcement and one for news gathering, demonstrating the platform’s growing traction in the market. The helicopter received its certification from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) in May 2021, which officially cleared the path for its deployment across the country.
Further evidence of this trend came in July 2025, when the Nagoya City Fire Bureau also placed an order for an H160. Like Hiroshima, Nagoya plans to use the helicopter for a wide range of missions, including firefighting, search and rescue, and disaster response. This subsequent order from another major city highlights a shared confidence in the H160’s ability to meet the demanding requirements of Japan’s emergency responders. The Nagoya City Fire Bureau, which has been operating helicopters since 1973, will also be retiring an older AS365 model to make way for the new aircraft.
Airbus Helicopters has a long and established presence in Japan, spanning 65 years and with approximately 380 of its helicopters currently in operation across the country. This enduring partnership has built a foundation of trust and reliability. The selection of the H160 by two prominent fire departments reflects the strength of this relationship and the manufacturer’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions tailored to the specific needs of its Japanese partners. The continued adoption of the H160 is set to enhance interoperability and create a common platform for best practices among different municipal agencies.
Conclusion: A Glimpse into the Future of Emergency Response
The Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau’s acquisition of the Airbus H160 is more than just a fleet modernization; it is a pioneering move that sets a new global standard for aerial firefighting and public safety. By being the first in the world to adopt this advanced platform for firefighting, Hiroshima is not only enhancing its own disaster response capabilities but also paving the way for other cities to follow. The H160’s blend of advanced technology, multi-mission versatility, and operational efficiency makes it a formidable tool in the hands of first responders.
As this helicopter enters service, its performance will be a critical benchmark for the future of emergency aerial assets. The trend of adopting technologically superior platforms, as seen with the subsequent order from Nagoya, suggests a strategic evolution in how public safety agencies approach their missions. The focus is shifting towards integrated, adaptable, and highly efficient solutions that can perform reliably in the most demanding environments. The H160 is at the vanguard of this shift, and its success in Japan will likely accelerate its adoption in public service roles around the globe.
FAQ
Question: What makes the Airbus H160 suitable for firefighting missions?
Answer: The H160 is a highly versatile and technologically advanced helicopter. For firefighting, it can be equipped with a specialized firefighting bucket or a belly-mounted water tank to support ground crews in suppressing wildfires. Its advanced avionics, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency also make it effective for various disaster response scenarios.
Question: Is Hiroshima the only city in Japan to use the H160 for emergency services?
Answer: No. While Hiroshima is the first to use it for firefighting, the Nagoya City Fire Bureau also ordered an H160 in July 2025 for similar missions. Additionally, two other H160s are already in operation with law enforcement agencies in Japan.
Question: What aircraft is the H160 replacing?
Answer: The new H160 will replace an Airbus AS365 N3 helicopter that has been in service with the Hiroshima City Fire Services Bureau since 2006.
Sources: Airbus Press Release
Photo Credit: Airbus
MRO & Manufacturing
Honeywell Aerospace Signs 3-Year APU Deal With Garuda Indonesia
Honeywell Aerospace and Garuda Indonesia finalized a three-year APU maintenance agreement to stabilize repair costs and improve fleet reliability.
On September 23, 2026, Honeywell Aerospace and PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (GA) finalized a three-year strategic agreement to provide comprehensive repair and maintenance services for the airline’s auxiliary power units (APUs). The multi-year framework is designed to stabilize repair costs and improve maintenance predictability across the Indonesian national carrier’s fleet.
Announced in a press release issued by Honeywell Aerospace, the contract covers the manufacturer’s 131-9B, 331-350, and 331-500 APU models. APUs are critical components that provide electrical power and conditioned air while aircraft are on the ground during boarding and turnaround operations.
Contract Scope and Operational Impact
The agreement leverages Honeywell’s global lifecycle-service network, which includes 26 repair and overhaul facilities and more than 100 commercial air transport partner locations worldwide. By securing a defined service framework, Garuda Indonesia aims to execute more effective maintenance planning and ensure reliable APU operation.
Eric Ai, President of Asia Pacific for Honeywell Aerospace, emphasized the operational benefits of the arrangement.
“Consistent, predictable maintenance support is critical in helping airlines plan maintenance effectively and keep their fleets operating reliably. This agreement enables Honeywell Aerospace to provide that support to Garuda Indonesia through a clear multi-year framework and represents an important next step in our longstanding relationship focused on supporting the airline’s operational needs.”
Garuda Indonesia Director of Maintenance Mukhtaris noted that the agreement aligns with the airline’s ongoing transformation efforts. The carrier is focusing on strengthening operational capabilities and optimizing APU reliability to maintain aircraft readiness.
Regional MRO Expansion and Supply Chain Pressures
The Southeast Asia-Pacific aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) market is currently experiencing high demand for component work and predictive maintenance. Airlines and MRO providers are utilizing long-term agreements to manage industry-wide supply chain disruptions and reduce aircraft on ground (AOG) events.
This latest contract builds upon a previous strategic agreement signed on September 19, 2025, during the MRO Asia-Pacific event. In that arrangement, PT Garuda Maintenance Facility Aero Asia Tbk (GMF AeroAsia), the airline’s MRO subsidiary, partnered with Honeywell for a flat-rate repair program covering 331-350 APU piece parts and line-replaceable units (LRUs). GMF AeroAsia formally entered the APU market under that 2025 agreement, targeting 150 shop visits per year by 2027.
AirPro News analysis
We view this three-year agreement as a necessary defensive measure for Garuda Indonesia against the rising operational and maintenance costs currently impacting airline profitability across the Asia-Pacific region. By locking in a multi-year framework with Honeywell Aerospace, the carrier secures predictable maintenance costs. This cost control is highly strategic for Indonesian carriers navigating volatile supply chains, ensuring that critical components like APUs do not become bottlenecks for fleet availability.
Sources: Honeywell Aerospace
Photo Credit: Honeywell Aerospace
MRO & Manufacturing
Pratt & Whitney Canada Signs MRO Deal with AirBorneo Airways
Pratt & Whitney Canada secures a four-year PW127M maintenance agreement with AirBorneo Airways, supported from Singapore through 2030.
Pratt & Whitney Canada has secured a four-year maintenance, repair, and overhaul agreement with AirBorneo Airways to support the PW127M engines powering the carrier’s legacy ATR 72-500 regional turboprop fleet. Announced on September 24, 2026, the contract ensures operational continuity for the airline’s critical Rural Air Services network across East Malaysia through 2030.
In a press release issued by RTX Corporation, Pratt & Whitney Canada confirmed the engine work will be conducted primarily at its newly expanded facility in Singapore. The localized support is designed to reduce turnaround times and maintain high dispatch reliability for AirBorneo, which relies heavily on its turboprop fleet to connect remote and underserved communities.
Bridging the fleet transition
AirBorneo Airways officially commenced operations under its own identity on January 1, 2026, following the Sarawak government’s acquisition of MASwings from Malaysia Aviation Group. The transition included taking over the Rural Air Services network and an existing fleet of eight ATR 72-500 aircraft.
While the airline placed a firm order for eight new ATR 600-series aircraft at the Singapore Airshow on February 3, 2026, those airframes are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2029. The new maintenance agreement with Pratt & Whitney Canada bridges this gap, ensuring the older PW127M-powered aircraft remain viable and reliable until the fleet modernization is complete.
AirBorneo Chief Executive Officer Megat Ardian Aminuddin emphasized the importance of regional support for the carrier’s specific operational profile.
“Having this support based in Singapore puts our engine maintenance and repairs close to home and our aircraft back in service faster. That confidence gives us the operational certainty we need to consistently serve our customers on our intra-Borneo routes where reliable air transport is a vital link for remote communities.”
Expanded maintenance capabilities in the Asia-Pacific
The agreement highlights Pratt & Whitney Canada’s recent investments in its Asia-Pacific infrastructure. By expanding its Singapore facility to accommodate broader turboprop maintenance capabilities, the manufacturer can serve regional operators without the logistical delays of shipping engines to North America or Europe.
Anthony Rossi, Vice President of Customer Service for Pratt & Whitney Canada, stated the company worked closely with the airline to develop a solution that manages costs while supporting high dispatch availability. Rossi noted the contract reinforces the manufacturer’s commitment to advancing its maintenance services to meet evolving customer requirements.
The PW100 engine family, which includes the PW127M, has accumulated more than 200 million flight hours over 40 years of regional turboprop operations. When AirBorneo begins receiving its new ATR 72-600 and ATR 42-600 aircraft, those airframes will be powered by the newer PW127XT Series engines, continuing the operator’s relationship with the RTX business unit.
AirPro News analysis
We view this four-year agreement as a pragmatic stopgap for AirBorneo Airways as it navigates the complex transition from a legacy MASwings operation to an independent, modernized state-owned carrier. The Rural Air Services network operates in challenging environments where aircraft downtime directly impacts community lifelines. By utilizing Pratt & Whitney Canada’s expanded Singapore facility, AirBorneo mitigates supply chain risks and turnaround delays associated with aging airframes. For RTX, which reported $88 billion in sales in 2025 and employs over 180,000 people globally, securing the legacy maintenance contract ensures continuous revenue from the PW127M while seamlessly transitioning the customer to the PW127XT platform later in the decade.
Sources: RTX
Photo Credit: Pratt & Whitney Canada
MRO & Manufacturing
Chromalloy Earns FAA PMA for V2500 HPT Stage 1 Blade
Chromalloy secures FAA PMA for a V2500 HPT Stage 1 blade, its fifth V2500 part certified with Lufthansa Technik.
Chromalloy has secured Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for a new High Pressure Turbine (HPT) Stage 1 blade for the V2500 Select engine, an approval backed by a manufacturing and development investment exceeding $100 million in Florida.
Announced in a company press release on September 22, 2026, the Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) marks the fifth V2500 component developed through a strategic agreement between Chromalloy and Lufthansa Technik. The certification introduces a cost-efficient, FAA-approved aftermarket replacement option for operators of the V2500 engine worldwide, breaking the original manufacturer’s exclusivity on the high-value airfoil.
Manufacturing expansion and production ramp-up
To support the new HPT Stage 1 blade, Chromalloy directed more than $100 million into its design, development, and certification processes, alongside a significant expansion of its manufacturing footprint. The production operations span three Florida locations: Tampa, Oldsmar, and Palm Beach Gardens. These facilities handle the complete manufacturing lifecycle of the blade, including smelting, casting, machining, and specialized coating.
Production of the new turbine blades is currently ramping up and will continue to accelerate through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. The first shipments are slated for launch customer Lufthansa Technik, which employs approximately 23,000 people and serves as a major maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider for global airline fleets.
Sebastian Hagenmueller, Head of Product V2500 Overhaul at Lufthansa Technik, stated that the FAA approval represents a critical milestone in the collaboration between the two companies. He noted that each new approval adds a proven and cost-efficient option for their customers operating V2500 fleets.
Expanding the V2500 aftermarket portfolio
The HPT Stage 1 blade certification builds on a foundation of recent regulatory approvals for Chromalloy. On February 10, 2026, the company achieved FAA approval for the V2500 Select 8th Stage Compressor Blade PMA. Chromalloy recently marked its 75th anniversary of operations on August 24, 2026, and has developed more than 60 gas-path PMA parts that have collectively accumulated over 6 billion part flight hours.
Chromalloy Chief Executive Officer Chris Celtruda emphasized the technical rigor required to bring the new blade to market.
“This fifth approval reflects significant engineering investment and the strength of our relationship with Lufthansa Technik. Chromalloy remains at the forefront of innovative aftermarket solutions for high-value engine airfoil applications, and we’re proud to keep expanding the value we deliver to Lufthansa Technik, our launch customer, and other airline operators and MROs across the globe.”
AirPro News analysis
We note that the continued expansion of PMA parts for mature engine programs like the V2500 provides critical leverage for MRO providers and airlines seeking to manage lifecycle costs. High-pressure turbine blades operate in the most extreme thermal and mechanical environments within a gas turbine engine, making their development and certification exceptionally rigorous. By investing heavily in domestic manufacturing capabilities across Florida, Chromalloy is positioning itself to capture significant aftermarket share at a time when original equipment manufacturer supply chains remain constrained. The partnership with a major MRO like Lufthansa Technik ensures a built-in launch customer and validates the technical acceptance of these alternative parts in the global market.
Sources: Chromalloy Corporate Newsroom
Photo Credit: Lufthansa Technik
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