Taxi Aereo Marilia Gets Tapped

During the HAI Expo 2004, Bell Chief executive Officer, Mike Redenbaugh announced the selection of TAM Taxi Aereo Marilia S.A. as the sole sales representative for Bell Helicopter in Brazil. Just after the announcement TAM ordered a new Bell 427 IFR helicopter. TAM-Aereo Marilia is a part of the TAM Group, which also includes TAM airlines SA and TAM Transportes Aereos del Mercousur, with a total revenue of approximately US$1.35 billion in annual revenues.

This agreement helps Bell tap into the growing Latin American Market. Specifically, the Brazilian helicopter market is the seventh largest in the world and has a total fleet size of 1,083 helicopters. With backing from its large parent company, TAM claims its ready to promote Bell throughout the region.

Rui Thomaz de Aquino, president of TAM, said "We are most pleased to  be the sole sales representative for Bell in Brazil. I estimate with Bell we can obtain 50 percent of what the market in Brazil may absorb in 2004."

Redenbaugh said "TAM has had an over two decade long relationship with Textron. They have proven they are professional and dedicated to their customers time and time again over the years. They are the perfect fit for us at Bell. I look forward to a great partnership."

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.textron.com