Chelton Flight Systems has been selected by Bell Helicopter to provide the glass cockpit system - Chelton's EFIS - for its 407 light single engine helicopter. The contract has a potential value in excess of US$100m.

With this selection Bell becomes the first major OEM to offer synthetic vision for all light and medium single engine helicopters. It is intended that CFS equipment will become the preferred equipment offered for the 206B JetRanger, 206L LongRanger, and the new Bell 210.

Boise-based Chelton Flight Systems will serve as the system integrator and will supply the EFIS. Other Cobham companies' contributions to the 407 glass cockpit are Northern Airborne Technology who will provide dual 8.33 Mhz digital coms, a Mode-S transponder and audio control; Comant will supply the antennas and Artex the 406 Mhz ELT with GPS interface option.

The Chelton cockpit, already available as retrofit, will be available from the factory in the first quarter of 2007. Allan Cook, Chief Executive, Cobham, said “This represents a significant milestone for Chelton Flight Systems. The technology is already FAA certified on over 450 different aircraft models and Bell will be the first OEM to offer this advanced technology from the factory.”

“Bell Helicopter is excited to partner with Chelton Flight Systems to offer a state ofthe art glass cockpit for our single engine line,” says Bell Programme Director Barry Kohler.

“Combining the performance and reliability of these aircraft with the safety of synthetic vision will make them unique in the industry.”

FMI: www.bellheli.com