Japan’s First Designer Series Bell 429 Helicopter Sold to Japan General Aviation Service Group

Bell Textron, a Textron Inc. company, announced on 11 March 2024 that Japan General Aviation Service (JGAS) has signed a purchase agreement for Japan’s first Designer Series Bell 429 helicopter. JGAS, a leading player in Japanese aviation, offers both aircraft sales and after-sales support. Once delivered, the helicopter will be operated by JBZ, a JGAS subsidiary specializing in corporate relocation services within Japan. This Bell 429 will be the second in JBZ’s fleet.

“We are honoured by the trust JBZ has placed in Bell through their purchase of the first Designer Series Bell 429 helicopter. Working closely with JGAS Group, we are confident that we can demonstrate the strong value Bell and JGAS provide to Japanese customers through an optimized experience for their Bell helicopters.”

Takuya Masamura, country manager, Bell Japan

The Bell 429 Designer Series takes luxury to new heights with premium leathers, upgraded upholstery, and elegant hardwood flooring. The interior boasts a cohesive design with complementary metal finishes and leather details thoughtfully incorporated throughout the colour scheme.

Beyond its luxurious interior, the Bell 429 has earned worldwide recognition for its smooth and comfortable flight experience, offering the best cabin space in its class. With over 450 Bell 429s operating worldwide and exceeding 602,000 flight hours, this aircraft is a proven performer for corporate, emergency medical, and law enforcement customers.

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Honda Airways Purchases Its First Bell 505 Helicopter in Japan

Bell Textron Inc. announced the delivery of a Bell 505 helicopter to Honda Airways in Japan on March 12, 2024. Honda Airways, a subsidiary of Honda Motors with a rich history dating back to 1964, offers a variety of aviation services including scenic tours, skydiving, corporate charters, flight training, and even emergency medical services in collaboration with local governments. This Bell 505 joins 20 others already operating in Japan across various sectors. Honda Airways specifically plans to utilize this new helicopter for corporate charters and flight training.

“The Bell 505 continues to see strong interest and demand from our Japanese customers on the back of its good operating performance and reliable track record. We are honoured that Honda Airways, an established helicopter operator in Japan, has taken delivery of its first Bell 505 and we look forward to supporting Honda Airways in the operations of their Bell 505.”

Takuya Masamura, country manager, Japan, Bell

The Bell 505 program has achieved impressive milestones globally. With over 500 delivered helicopters and exceeding 100,000 total flight hours, the Bell 505 has proven its versatility and reliability. Notably, in February 2023, the Bell 505 became the world’s first single-engine helicopter to fly using 100% sustainable aviation fuel, solidifying its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

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Singapore Airlines Enhances Premium Economy Class In-Flight Experience With New Dining Options And Amenity Kits

Singapore Airlines is significantly upgrading its Premium Economy Class experience starting 31 March 2024. Passengers can expect an expanded selection of food and beverages, new amenity kits made with sustainable materials, and overall improved service.

Diners will be greeted with complimentary Charles de Cazanove champagne and browse a menu featuring a wider variety of meals, snacks, and drinks. All meals will be served on custom-made porcelain tableware for an elegant touch. On longer flights (over 7 hours), passengers will receive a new amenity kit made with sustainable materials by “Out of the Woods.” This eco-friendly pouch contains essentials for a comfortable journey, including eyeshades and slippers made from recycled PET material, and a lip balm packaged in biodegradable material. Toiletries, such as dental kits and moisturizers, will continue to be available in the lavatory.

“Since its introduction in 2015, Premium Economy Class has become popular with our customers. They appreciate the added amenities, heightened comfort, and the extra personal space it offers, all at an excellent value. At Singapore Airlines, though, our philosophy is to never stand still. We regularly gather customer feedback and conduct market research, learn more about the evolving value drivers for travellers, and find innovative ways to continue delivering a personalised and world-class in-flight experience. Based on these insights, we have undertaken this comprehensive revamp of our Premium Economy Class in-flight offerings, which we believe will delight our customers. The result reflects Singapore Airlines’ dedication to enhancing the Premium Economy Class experience to a class of its own.”

Mr. Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Singapore Airlines

The in-flight dining revamp boasts over 200 new dishes, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Expect seasonal options alongside some permanent favourites. Premium Economy Class meals will now come with a full-sized tray service, complete with a seasonal appetizer, main course, bread, dessert, and cheese and crackers.

Breakfast will feature croissants, while lunch, dinner, and supper will offer garlic bread rolls. New appetizer options include garlic roasted prawns with smoked aioli, patatas bravas, broccoli salad with smoked salmon, and seasonal Japanese cold noodles.

For the main course, you’ll have a choice between two options – international or Asian cuisine – on every flight. New dishes include Beef Bourguignon, Bak Chor Mee (minced pork noodles), and Thai-style Crab Curry.

Passengers can also pre-order meals from an expanded “Book the Cook” menu featuring up to 20 rotating dishes. This includes popular choices like Singapore Style Seafood Hor Fun and Chicken Biryani, alongside new additions like Slow Braised Lamb Ragout, Sake Teriyaki (salmon in teriyaki sauce), and plant-based options.

Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted by new desserts like Chocolate Feuilletine Cake, Mascarpone Cream Cake, and Apple Crumble Cheesecake. All meals will be complemented by a small bar of chocolate and upgraded cheese and crackers.

The revamped service includes a selection of wines and champagne chosen by SIA’s wine experts specifically for Premium Economy Class. Passengers can also choose from spirits, signature cocktails, beers, soft drinks, fruit juices, coffee, tea, and a wider variety of hot beverages like peppermint tea, chamomile tea, and Cadbury hot chocolate.

For snacking between meals, new options like almonds and cashews are being introduced alongside existing choices like potato chips, assorted buns, sandwiches, muffins, and flavoured popcorn.

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Photos by Bell Textron and Singapore Airlines