New Zealand Operator Nabs Initial Units of Upscale, Soundproofed Helicopters

Bell Textron announced the delivery of the first Bell 429 helicopters containing the new Designer Series interior.

The aircraft were tendered to Advanced Flight, a helicopter charter and management company in New Zealand. With the new additions, Advanced Flight will operate three VIP configured Bell 429s in its fleet.

“The Bell 429 remains the light twin corporate helicopter of choice across Asia Pacific, as our corporate customers continue to experience how the comfort and reliability of the Bell 429 support their businesses and lifestyle,” said Jacinto Monge, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell. “We look forward to working with Advanced Flight to support their goal of providing high quality aircraft management services for all their Bell 429s in the fleet.”

The Designer Series interior entered the Bell catalog in March of 2022, offering interior upgrades to all cabin materials, improved soundproofing, and a tweaked layout for a spacious, high-end appeal. Advanced Flight's current fleet of Bell 429s see the majority of their service spent ferrying the firm's corporate customers, but the firm's 2018 contract with the New Zealand Police Air Support Unit puts a trio of Advanced Flight managed aircraft to constant use. The contract to manage and operate 3 Bell 429s accounts for 3,300 flight hours every year.

“We are pleased to take delivery of our third Bell 429 and to operate these new designer series Bell 429 for our loyal customers,” said Keith Stephens, CEO, Advanced Flight. “At Advanced Flight, both our pilots and engineering teams have many years of experience operating the Bell 429 throughout New Zealand. This wealth of knowledge on the Bell 429 gives us the confidence to exceed the expectations of our customers in safety and comfort.”

FMI: www.bellflight.com