The Tokyo Metropolitan Police (TMP) force has taken delivery of an Agusta/GKN Westland EH101. The medium-lift, multirole helicopter, which is fitted to carry 30 passengers in a standard central aisle cabin configuration, replaces a Kawasaki KV-107. The EH101, which has a rear ramp, will be used to patrol Tokyo City, Tokyo Bay - including the Ogasawara Gunto islands - and for rescue and emergency evacuation. The three-engined, 15t aircraft will be the largest helicopter type in TMP's fleet. Agusta and GKN Westland announced plans to merge last month. Orders have been placed for 98 EH101s.
Source: Flight International
