Third Test Aircraft On Display In Houston

Bell Helicopter provided a 429 program update Saturday at the 2008 Heli-Expo, confirming the performance of its new helicopter and the status of its flight test program.

"The 429 has shown outstanding performance during the flight test program," said Neil Marshall, Bell's 429 program director. "We currently have three 429 aircraft flying, which have accumulated over 600 flight test hours and each has accomplished all of our goals during the initial phase of testing."

The external configuration was frozen in October 2007 and full configuration freeze including software is expected this summer. Aircraft #3, which reflects the closest to final configuration, recently joined the flight test program. This aircraft is on display at this year's Heli-Expo held in Houston, TX which runs February 24-26.

Officials at Bell confirm the 429 helicopter has either met or exceeded all the performance parameters established when the initial design was begun. These parameters, based on input from customer groups, have guided Bell engineers as they set out to create a flexible, stable aircraft that will have the cabin size and performance characteristics of an intermediate twin -- at the price of a light twin.

Bell says its clean sheet design approach -- coupled with Bell's unique Modular Affordable Product Line (MAPL) technologies -- has allowed the company to rethink many of the concepts related to previous helicopters and achieve significant breakthroughs in safety and projected direct operating costs (DOC), while maintaining Bell's renowned dependability and ruggedness.

Bell notes market response has been very strong with over 260 orders from approximately 30 different countries and representing Bell's focus market segments of Law Enforcement (LE), Emergency Medical (EMS) and off-shore have been booked.

Certification of the 429 is targeted for late this year.

Upgrades Coming To 206L, 407 And 412 EP

Bell also made public Saturday enhancement plans for its product line, with the announcement that the 206L, 407 and 412 EP will each receive upgrades to maintain their competitive edge in the marketplace.

"Bell Helicopter recognizes that the marketplace is a dynamic environment and we are committed to keeping our products current," said Barry Kohler, Bell's vice president for Commercial Programs. "We have listened to our customers and have created enhancement programs that respond to their needs."

Bell's model 206L will benefit from the introduction of structural and performance upgrades for the fielded aircraft, the model 407 will offer a glass cockpit upgrade option and the model 412 will be the first fielded helicopter to be JAROPS certified.

Danny Maldonado, Bell's vice president Commercial Business Development stated, "These actions should continue to position these products very well and we anticipate continued strong demand."

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.com