Wed, Jul 01, 2009
Pivotal Development Program Gets Its Papers
Bell Helicopter has confirmed Transport Canada Civil Aviation
(TCCA) certification of its newest light twin engine helicopter,
the Bell 429. Bell has also completed the requisite FAA
certification requirements. First deliveries are scheduled to begin
this month.
"This is an outstanding helicopter and one that is really
resonating with our customers," said Dick Millman, president and
CEO of Bell. "I am extremely proud of the Bell team for the work
they have done to create the 429 and I believe this is just the
start of many great things we will see coming out of Bell
Helicopter in the years to come."
"The 429 is the kind of product that will energize the
marketplace," said Bob Fitzpatrick, senior vice president of
Business Development and Commercial Programs. "Its design makes it
adaptable for different market segments. Powered by two
Pratt-Whitney Canada PW207D1 engines, the 429 has a phenomenally
smooth ride and a power-to-weight ratio 20% greater than any
helicopter in its class."
As part of the 429's development, Bell established multiple
customer advisory boards that were consulted throughout the design
and manufacturing phase to gather input on what they want in a
light twin engine helicopter. The result is a helicopter that meets
or exceeds every critical design element identified by the customer
boards.
"We are delivering an aircraft that is absolutely on target for
our customers," said Neil Marshall, Bell's 429 program director.
"We felt it was critical to deliver on our promise and I'm proud to
say we didn't compromise."
With 30 percent greater cabin volume than any other competitor
in its class, Bell is confident that the 429 will be well received
by the market. In fact, since Bell first announced the 429, over
300 letters of intent have been received making the 429 the most
anticipated new helicopter launched in recent history. Over the
next several months Bell will be working with its customers to
convert these letters of intent into firm binding orders.
"My organization will be ready from day one with the kind of
support, spares and services that the vertical lift industry has
come to expect from Bell Helicopter," said Danny Maldonado, senior
vice president of Customer Support and Chief Services Officer for
Bell.
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