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."