Kawasaki Receives Order of BK117 C-2 for Tohoku Air Service

Tokyo, February 28, 2023 — Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today the receipt of an order by Mizuho Leasing Company, Ltd. for a BK117 C-2 (“C-2”) helicopter. This is the second order from the customer for the C -2, and like the first delivered in 2021, it will be leased to Tohoku Air Service Co., Ltd., and will serve the local community by operating as a power equipment patrol and doctor helicopter.

Developed jointly by Kawasaki and European helicopter manufacturer Airbus Helicopters, the BK117 is the first domestically manufactured, medium-sized, multipurpose, twin-engine helicopter to be granted type certification. It features wide clamshell doors at the rear which enable easy loading and unloading of stretchers, large equipment and so forth, and its spacious cabin, compact overall design and outstanding mobility have earned this helicopter high marks. The BK117 is used around the world for firefighting, disaster relief, emergency medical services, cargo and personnel transport, law enforcement, broadcasting and more.

Following delivery of the first model in 1983, the BK117 has been continually improved over the years, and thanks to the aircraft's outstanding technological strengths and high reliability, Kawasaki has successfully delivered 189 units as of today, and more than 1,900 worldwide with deliveries of Airbus Helicopters combined, making it a global bestseller.

Moving forward, Kawasaki will continuously utilize its technological capabilities cultivated over the years and employ a comprehensive support system distinctive of domestically manufactured helicopters in order to further explore business opportunities for the BK117.