Wed, Mar 17, 2004
Helicopter To Receive Major Upgrade
HAI Expo 2004 was the perfect venue for Bell to unveil one of
its major headlines of the week. Bell Helicopter Chief Executive
Officer Mike Redenbaugh announced the company's intention to go
forward with an IFR version of the 427. The 427IFR will have
several new features and some elements of Bell's MAPL
technology program. Some of the more important features
include more cabin room, a new state-of-the-art glass cockpit and
new rotor technology offering increased performance.
Bell hopes these additions will make the 427IFR an
attractive platform for the EMS and Homeland Security
mission. The manufacturer also expects to expand the
market for light twins in the offshore industry. Not forgetting
about its current 427 customers, Bell claims many of the
improvements made to the 427IFR will be available in kit form for
current owners.
Bell is nearing completion of negotiations with its partners and
expect to make a formal announcement about partnership details by
mid-year. The company is also discussing initial sales with several
prospective customers, including fleet purchase prospects.
The new glass cockpit features include:
- Integrated Avionics System
- Fully coupled 3-axis autopilot
- Pilot friendly instrument panel
- Room for growth and mission flexibility
A completely reworked rotor system will
provide:
- Increased speed
- Improved altitude performance
- Decreased noise
Considered by some as an aircraft for the EMS mission, the
427IFR will provide increased volume in the cabin for comfort and
improved patient access. The aircraft is capable of carrying two
patients and two attendants or one patient and three attendants
plus all required equipment.
"As we know, developing and producing a new aircraft is a very
expensive proposition. Many millions had been spent on the 427
already," Redenbaugh said. "But because it was VFR it was precluded
from operating in certain environments and markets. Our goal is to
provide a 427 that meets all mission requirements in all mission
profiles…VFR and IFR. The 427IFR will do that."
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