New Certificate-Holder Says Refurb Hard To Tell From New

With the possible exception of the Piper J-3 Cub, there may be no aircraft so iconic as the Bell 47G. Mention the word "helicopter" to most people outside aviation, and the 47G with bubble canopy and open-frame tail boom is what they'll see in their heads. More than 60 years after its introduction in 1946, Bell last year transferred the type certificate for the 47 to Scott’s–Bell 47, Inc. (SB47), an outgrowth of Scott's Helicopter Services in Minnesota, which has been offering support for the type since 1981.

This week, SB47 is showing its vision for the future of the aircraft at the National Agricultural Aviation Association Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas, which officially opens Wednesday. The company is displaying a refurbished 47G-2A Agricultural Helicopter (similar aircraft pictured) fitted with an Oregon Aero interior and Isolair spray system. The machine also features a number of upgrades STC'd by sister company Texas Helicopter Co., Inc., including a No-Bar Kit, improved sprag system and muffler, which combine to reduce weight and noise.

SB47 General Manager Neil Marshall observes, “This is a perfect example of the durability of the model 47 and what makes it such a great helicopter. This helicopter was manufactured in 1955, has over 10,000 hours on the airframe, yet operators will witness at NAAA that after our refurbishment it is hard to believe it is not a brand new helicopter.”

Oregon Aero and Isolair Helicopter Services will both have representatives attending NAAA 2011 with Scott's-Bell 47.

FMI: www.scottsbell47.com