Uprated, Modernized Huey Variant Finds Another Customer

The Salt River Project, the power supply company serving the Phoenix, Arizona region, has signed a purchase agreement foa a single Subaru Bell 412EPX.

The Bell 412EPXbuilds on the base level 412 with an improved, more robust main rotor gearbox, dry running capability, increased internal maximum gross weight, and boosted mast torque output. The EPX is a definite upgrade for the power supply company, granting improved external carrying capacity up to 13,000 pounds.

“SRP’s Flight Services Department has relied on Bell aircraft for more than 40 years,” said Lane Evans, managing director for the North America branch at Bell. “The Subaru Bell 412EPX will significantly enhance SRP’s ability to transport crew and cargo, perform power pole replacement and complete hoist work, which is critical to their mission of providing low-cost electricity and water resources to Arizona residents.”

The company has been key to the expansion of the Phoenix area, set inside the desert west. The region has been tied to aviation since it's rapid expansion during WWII, when the region became a hub for flight training for allied air forces from around the world. With summertime temperatures downright dangerous for some residents, SRP has taken their mission to ensure around the clock operations seriously.

Their flight department has been in operation since the later 1970's, making it one of the largest utility operators in North America. The new Subaru will join the current fleet of Bell aircraft, with a 212 and 429 already in service.

“The Arizona climate and topography can be extremely challenging year-round,” said an SRP spokesman. “The Subaru Bell 412EPX’s modern technology and unmatched ability to perform in the most demanding environments will allow our unit to operate more efficiently and safely to provide power resources to the public.”

FMI: www.bellflight.com