Order Received for Kawasaki BK117C-2 Disaster Relief Helicopter from Akita Prefecture

Tokyo, December 28, 2015 — Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today that it has received an order for the latest Kawasaki BK117C-2 helicopter from the Akita Prefectural Government. It is the 14th C-2 model to be used for firefighting and disaster relief. The new helicopter is scheduled to replace a retiring firefighting helicopter deployed by the Akita Fire Fighting Disaster Prevention Air Corps.

Developed jointly by Kawasaki and European helicopter manufacturer Airbus Helicopters, formerly Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm (MBB), the Kawasaki BK117 is a medium-sized twin-engine helicopter and is the first domestically manufactured commercial helicopter to have been granted type certification.

The large clamshell doors at the rear of the BK117 facilitate the quick transfer of equipment which is needed for firefighting and disaster relief activities. Its spacious cabin, compact body, as well as superior safety and mobility have earned the BK117 high marks. Suitable for multiple purposes, the BK117 is used for a wide range of applications including transporting cargo and passengers, police work, emergency medical services, broadcasting, and more.

Since its market debut in 1983, the BK117 has undergone continuous improvements making it the bestselling model in the world. Kawasaki’s outstanding technological know-how and proven track record have resulted in 167 helicopters delivered as of December 28, 2015. Together with those delivered by Airbus Helicopters, there are over 1,200 in use around the globe.

Kawasaki continues to maintain its competitive edge with proven superior technological capabilities and outstanding customer services as it actively markets its BK117C-2 helicopters.