Las Vegas Helicopters has added a Bell 407 to its Grand Canyon tour operation. The aircraft is the first 407 operating in the Las Vegas air tourism market. Citing the 407's speed, comfort, higher visibility, and reduced maintenance, Las Vegas Helicopters President Gerry Shlesigner said, "I have been a fan of Bell since I started doing tours over 20 years ago. I just sold the A-Star for an absolutely gorgeous 407."

Mr. Shlesigner added "The aircraft is much more comfortable, with seats like living room couches, and the doors close like a Mercedes". Further he added, "The 407 is a proven performer compared to the EC130, particularly with regard to the FADEC. In addition, the 407 is faster, which saves time on multiple daily trips to the Grand Canyon. From the pilot's perspective, you get a lot more helicopter with the 407."

Las Vegas Helicopters, located on the Las Vegas Strip next to the Bellagio Hotel for the last twelve years, has carried over 300,000 riders on its daytime tours of the Grand Canyon and night tours of the Strip. Sporting a distinctive stars and stripes paint scheme, Las Vegas Helicopters aircraft and limousines "Are the highest visibility helicopter operation in the world," said Schelsinger, "and we are excited to have the first 407 in the Las Vegas tour industry."

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.textron.com