Modernizing Capabilities To Serve Two Million Citizens

Bell Textron announced that the Columbus, Ohio, Department of Public Safety signed a purchase agreement for two Bell 505 helicopters to be part of a modernization effort being undertaken for the Department’s aerial police capabilities for serving the Columbus Metro Area’s almost two million residents.

The Columbus Division of Police plans to utilize its new Bell 505 acquisitions for critical public safety missions such as aerial patrol, airborne law enforcement safety and assistance for ground-based officers as well as critical and time-sensitive search missions.

Lane Evans, Managing Director of North America for Bell said, “Bell is proud to support the Columbus Division of Police as they upgrade their aviation section with two Bell 505s. With the Bell 505’s modern design, contemporary camera system, and advanced technologies, the Division has the option to operate at higher altitudes more efficiently. The Bell 505 continues to be a highly sought-after aircraft in the public safety field for its multi-mission capabilities.”

The Bell 505 is powered by a Safran Arrius 2R engine with dual channel FADEC, a Garmin G1000H NXi all-glass avionics suite with a moving map display. It is one of the most technologically advanced helicopters in its class. With wide panoramic windows, an open cabin design, and Synthetic Vision technology, the Bell 505 is very popular in the public safety market.

The purchase agreement was announced at the Airborne Public Safety Association Conference, or APSCON 2025/APSCON Unmanned 2025 being held in Phoenix, Arizona.

FMI:  www.bellflight.com/