Singapore Airshow 2024: Bell 505 Maintains Strong Sales Momentum Across Southeast Asia

Bell Textron continues to see strong sales for its Bell 505 helicopter across Asia Pacific. The recent Singapore Airshow solidified this trend, with Malaysian helicopter service provider Hammock Helicopter leading the charge by signing a purchase agreement for two Bell 505s in a corporate configuration.

“Bell has achieved significant success with the Bell 505 across Asia Pacific. Our customers’ success is closely tied to our own, as we strive to meet their unique operational needs through collaborative efforts. Together, we unlock the full capabilities of this innovative aircraft. As the most advanced rotorcraft in its class, the Bell 505 consistently delivers significant value and exceptional performance for customers in various mission segments.”

Sameer Rehman, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell

This isn’t an isolated case. Over the past year, an Indonesian helicopter operator and four corporate clients from the Philippines have also signed contracts for one Bell 505 each. These new additions will bring the total number of active Bell 505s serving Southeast Asia to seven, joining the over 100 already flying in the Asia Pacific region.

Since its debut in 2017, Bell has delivered over 505 Bell 505s worldwide, accumulating more than 100,000 global flight hours. The Bell 505 is also making strides in sustainability, having participated as a demonstrator for Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Singapore and Texas. This commitment to alternative fuels reflects Bell’s dedication to incorporating sustainable practices into its global operations.

The Bell 505’s success is no accident. Every aspect of this aircraft was meticulously designed, starting with its spacious and customizable cabin and dual channel FADEC controlled engine. The helicopter offers exceptional visibility and panoramic views through its glass cockpit, enhanced by comfortable stadium seating with a slight elevation in the rear rows. Highly efficient and dependable, the Bell 505 is a versatile aircraft that can handle diverse weather and terrain.

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Aerobee Corporation Takes Delivery of First Bell 407GXi Helicopter in the Philippines

The Philippines’ aviation industry welcomes its first Bell 407GXi helicopter, delivered to Aerobee Corporation. Founded in 2020, Aerobee focuses on bringing innovative aviation and agricultural solutions to the Philippines. Their new Bell 407GXi boasts an autopilot feature and a revamped interior designed for seamless connectivity with mobile devices and computers.

“Bell’s Asia Pacific operators continue to recognize the 407GXi’s low cost of ownership and proven performance to meet their clients’ discerning needs. Now available with full IFR certification and backed by industry-leading aftermarket support for which Bell is globally renowned, the Bell 407GXi with its multimission capabilities is a benchmark for this region. Our Filipino customers are important to Bell’s success, and we are privileged that Aerobee in Manila has selected the new Bell 407GXi to enhance their offerings.”

Sameer Rehman, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell

This aircraft joins a prestigious lineage – over 1,590 Bell 407s operate worldwide across various roles, accumulating over 6 million total flight hours. From public safety and utility to emergency medical services, corporate transport, and even multi-role armed training, the Bell 407 proves its versatility.

The Bell 407GXi itself is a powerhouse. Its Rolls-Royce M250-C47E/4 dual-channel FADEC turbine engine delivers impressive performance and fuel efficiency, allowing it to cruise at speeds of 133 knots (246 kilometers per hour). Pilots will also appreciate the upgraded Garmin G1000H NXi Integrated Flight Deck, featuring high-resolution displays, faster processors, and seamless connectivity with tablets and smartphones.

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Bell Delivers Indonesia’s First Designer Series Bell 429 Helicopter

Indonesia takes luxury to new heights with the arrival of its first Designer Series Bell 429 helicopter, delivered to SOTA Holdings Pte Ltd. This aircraft will be managed and operated by PT National Utility Helicopters (NUH), one of Indonesia’s leading helicopter operators, for a Jakarta-based agribusiness in East Kalimantan.

“At Bell, we take great pride in delivering aircraft that meet or exceed our customers’ unique tastes and requirements. The seamless customization of the Bell 429 for SOTA Holdings Pte Ltd, is the first helicopter from our Designer Series lineup which shall be used in Indonesia, epitomizes our commitment to meeting those needs. The Bell 429 continues to be the light twin helicopter of choice in the corporate and government segments across the region as operators recognize its multi-mission capabilities, along with Bell’s strong aftermarket service and support that enable operators to keep their 429s flying more and for longer.”

Sameer Rehman, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Bell

The Bell 429 Designer Series boasts a meticulously crafted interior featuring premium leathers, upgraded upholstery, and elegant hardwood flooring. Metallic accents complement the refreshed colour scheme, creating a harmonious and luxurious cabin experience.

Beyond aesthetics, the Bell 429 is a popular choice for its functionality. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride with the most spacious cabin in the light twin helicopter market, making it ideal for corporate travel, emergency medical services, and law enforcement. Over 450 Bell 429s are already operating worldwide, accumulating more than 602,000 global flight hours. This latest delivery adds to Bell’s success in the Asia Pacific region, with five Bell 429 helicopters delivered to corporate and law enforcement customers over the past year.

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Photos courtesy of Bell Textron Inc.