Operators Interested In Upgraded Older Helos

Bell Helicopter tells ANN the helicopter manufacturer has seen increased interest in its Huey II kits, as operators around the world look to upgrade their older Hueys for extended life and improved performance.

"There are literally hundreds of Hueys around the world that can benefit from these kits and that represents a significant market for us," said Mike Blake, Bell's executive vice president for Customer Solutions. "The Huey is a very capable aircraft and once installation of these kits is performed the operators basically end up with a zero time Huey."

The kits represent a major upgrade that involves roughly 9000 piece parts and 900 part numbers and include a new tail boom, rotors and modifications to the engine for enhanced performance.

Kyle Shiminski, director of Commercial Programs for Bell with direct responsibility for the kits says, "As our customers understand the scope of work involved and the tremendous advantages these upgrades provide, we are seeing more and more interest. We anticipate selling hundreds of these kits over the next several years."

The first Huey entered military service close to 50 years ago, in 1959.

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.com