429 Aircraft Bound for Public Service... Somewhere, They Won't Say

Bell Textron snagged an unnamed Middle Eastern country's order for a quartet of Bell 429 helicopters, only letting slip that the birds will go on to "parapublic missions."

It's an enigmatic but fun little brag at this year's Heli-Expo, the best time of the year for brands to shake some hands and move some metal. The aircraft will go out to serve in addition to the 90 Bell 429s currently "supporting law enforcement, firefighting and parapublic missions globally", or the greater Bell model family at more than 500 such aircraft around the world.

The 429 (neé 'GlobalRanger) has always been a solid seller in the public service niche, and it's only gotten better with all its fun new equipment. The most modern spec sheet includes options like a hoist, search light, rope kit, mission console, HD camera and video downlink. With ther 'law enforcement configuration', the 429 can seat 6, or remove the seats on the ground and use the floor hooks for cargo or equipment installation. The cargo hook itself can haul up 3,000 lbs of gear, further adding capability to a government bird that will find itself taking on a larger array of missions than its more specialized military cousins.

“Bell is honored another customer has chosen the Bell 429 to expand its parapublic fleet, a testament to its growing global footprint,” said Patrick Moulay, senior vice president of International Commercial Sales. “Bell takes great pride in providing all-encompassing aerial solutions to serve a broad range of regional law enforcement agencies and the citizens of their respective municipalities.”

FMI: www.bellflight.com