With Bells On …

Bell’s 505 is the clean-sheet progeny of the company’s storied 206 JetRanger helicopter. Unveiled at 2013’s Paris Airshow, the metal-composite, five-place, multi-mission 505 has proved a robustly capable, eminently adaptable machine, and a worthy successor to Bell’s 206.

Bell’s announcement of the recent 400th delivery of the 505 evinces the aircraft’s popularity, and underscores the likelihood of the model remaining a staple among helicopter operators for years to come.

The milestone 400th 505 was delivered to Mr. Al Barratt, Grenade energy-drink co-founder and owner of Cotswold Aviation, a U.K.-based air-charter concern. Joined by Bell management personnel, Mr. Barratt took delivery of his customized 505 during a delivery ceremony at Bell’s Mirabel, Canada facility.

Bell vice president of commercial sales LaShan Bonaparte remarked: “The Bell 505 is an incredible aircraft, and we are proud to celebrate the 400th delivery to Mr. Barratt. The Bell 505 provides outstanding performance capabilities, modern avionics and a versatile cabin for our customers. This will be a great addition to Cotswold Aviation’s fleet.”

Since its first delivery in 2017, Bell’s 505 has been among the company’s best-selling, fastest-growing, corporate-and-VIP-market products. As demand for the 505 has increased, Bell has strived to broaden the model’s functionality with augmentations the likes of a fully integrated Garmin G1000H NXi avionics suite, a Safran Arrius 2R engine with a dual-channel FADEC system, and an optional Mecaer Aviation Group interior. The added benefits of a large cabin and panoramic window views make the Bell 505 an ideal conveyance for corporate passengers and discerning private owners.

Mr. Barratt said of his new helicopter: “Flying in the 505 is a unique experience and a perfect solution for business travel around the UK and other parts of Europe. This aircraft enables me to save time throughout my day by avoiding traffic and gets me quickly and safely to my destination. I’m already operating two single engine fixed wing aircraft, and I’ve been looking for the ‘rotary equivalent’ of those machines. This stunning 505 fits my mission perfectly, blending performance and technology while reducing pilot workload.”

FMI: www.bellflight.com