Subaru 412EPX Remains a Seller for Textron

The Subaru 412EPX was the center of a recent purchase by the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, with plans to use it as an advanced fire and rescue aircraft.

The classic Huey profile has been a lasting element of the Bell lineup, and Subaru's take on the basic design has made sure it remains a viable contender among a sea of more recent helicopters. The 412EPX is a follow-on to Bell’s work, a joint venture between Bell at home and Fuji abroad. The 412EPX found customers right off the bat, being designated as the new utility helicopter for the Japanese Ground Self Defense Forces. All the classic Huey attributes express through the new model’s DNA, too: A 123-knot cruise, 360-nm range, and nearly 4-hour endurance, while seating 14. It’s not surprising that the San Diego team chose it, since it offers a handy do-all performer that will soldier on for decades to come.

“Bell is excited to work with San Diego Fire-Rescue as it expands their city’s public safety fleet,” said Lane Evans, managing director, North America. “The SUBARU Bell 412EPX combines what many public safety units are looking for – high-altitude power, increased weight capabilities, and a spacious interior. The platform continues to be highly sought-after in the field, especially for those tasked with combating wildfire outbreaks.”

"San Diego Fire-Rescue has had a 20-year relationship with Bell Textron, and they have been a great business partner throughout. Adding the SUBARU Bell 412EPX to our fleet is a significant step forward in enhancing our firefighting and rescue operations. The aircraft's high-altitude power, increased weight capabilities, and spacious interior will greatly improve our emergency response capabilities, allowing us to better serve the City of San Diego and the surrounding communities,” said Chuck Macfarland, Chief of Air Operations, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

FMI: www.bellflight.com