Aircraft Will Serve In VIP Transport Role

The first Bell 429 helicopter for the Middle East was delivered recently by Bell Helicopter. The announcement was made Sunday at IDEX, the largest defense and security event in the region.

Bell 429 File Photo

The 429 will be operated by Strong Aviation, headquartered in Kuwait City, which will utilize the helicopter for VIP missions in the area. A company spokesman said the Bell 429 was chosen for its performance capabilities, especially in the extreme climate of the Middle East.

"The Bell 429's outstanding hot-and-high performance along with its expansive cabin, were key features for us," said Capt. Salem Safar, Aviation Manager, Strong Aviation. "The 429 is quite simply the newest generation of helicopters. It is so advanced it does the pilot's work for him. And when it came to customer care, Bell Helicopter surpassed our expectations."

For several weeks at the end of last year, the Bell 429 engaged in a demonstration tour of the Middle East and Africa.

"The Bell 429 has become an international success," said Larry D. Roberts, Senior Vice President, Bell Helicopter. "Customers in the Middle East who are looking for the ultimate VIP transportation will find the 429 offers the best combination of an expansive, luxurious cabin and the speed, range and flexible performance to achieve all their missions. These attributes also makes the 429 ideal for EMS missions."

In addition to the Middle East, the Bell 429 has already found customers in China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, India, New Zealand and Argentina. Interest in the aircraft has come from private companies, including corporate transportation and utility missions, as well as civil and military government agencies.

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.com