The Bell 47 Was To Rotorcraft What The J-3 Has Been To Fixed Wing GA

Talk about an iconic airframe... outside of the Piper Cub, few aircraft are as stereotypical of a breed of flying machines as is the Bell 47 in the rotorcraft world.

Scott’s – Bell 47, Inc. was formed in 2009 when President and Owner, Scott Churchill, acquired the Type Certificates for Bell’s Model 47 helicopter. Since then, Scott’s – Bell 47 has established itself as the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for this extremely viable aircraft. The company's goal is 'to provide affordable, quality spare parts for the 1000+ Model 47s that are still flying worldwide today!'

Although Bell Helicopter ceased manufacturing of the aircraft in 1973, the market for this classic machine remains strong. To better support this market, the Bell 47 Type Certificate was transferred to Scott’s – Bell 47, Inc. (SB47) at a ceremony at HAI2010 on Feb 22, 2010. Scott Churchill, is no stranger to the Bell 47. He has served as pilot, mechanic, and inspector of the aircraft for over 38 years. Sister company, Scott’s Helicopter Services, operates 19 Bell 47s, serves as a Customer Service Facility, and is a certified FAA repair station.

Danny Maldonado, senior vice president and chief services officer at Bell (during the transfer), said, "This model really started the commercial helicopter business and Bell has a lot of heritage in the 47. However, we felt it was the best thing for our customers, and the 47, to transition ongoing support to Scott's Helicopter and we have every confidence that Scott's will continue to provide outstanding service and support." Since its inception in 1946, the Bell 47 has transformed aviation and today remains an extremely viable aircraft with unparalleled capabilities, especially in pilot training and agricultural spraying operations. Most importantly, the Bell 47 has a dedicated and loyal customer following. Scott's brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and passion to this market. Bell acknowledges this expectation by leaving its name attached to the product; now retitled as "Scott's-Bell 47."

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