Bell Textron Inc. opened the year with a prominent display at the Singapore Airshow 2026, showcasing its range of vertical lift solutions as the company reinforces its commitment to advancing aviation capabilities across the Asia-Pacific market.

At booth A-Q01 in the Changi Exhibition Centre, Bell is presenting the Bell 505 helicopter alongside scale models of the U.S. Army’s MV-75 Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) and the Bell 429. The company is also introducing new virtual reality training technology to the region for the first time.

Bell 505: Proven Platform Across Asia-Pacific

The Bell 505 represents the latest generation of short light single-engine helicopters, featuring advanced technology designed to enhance safety and reduce pilot workload. The aircraft is powered by the Safran Arrius 2R engine with dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC), delivering a maximum cruise speed of 125 knots (232 km/h).

The Garmin G1000H NXi avionics suite features dual 10.4-inch displays that present critical flight information, enhancing situational awareness. The system can be upgraded to include Helicopter Synthetic Vision Technology, providing pilots with 3D depiction of terrain and obstacles.

The helicopter features a flat floor, open cabin that is configurable for various missions, with removable seats and integrated tie-downs. With a five-seat capacity, the Bell 505 serves roles ranging from corporate transport and emergency medical services to law enforcement and utility operations.

Over 500 units have been delivered globally since certification in 2017. In the Asia-Pacific region, operators include the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, Japan Coast Guard, and Indonesian Navy. The aircraft has become a military training helicopter for several countries, including South Korea, Indonesia, Jamaica, Japan, UAE, Montenegro, and Jordan.

The 505-shaft horsepower engine enables the aircraft to fly up to 20,000 feet and carry 2,295 pounds external useful load, while the helicopter has a travel range of 333 nautical miles at 4,000 feet.

Bell 429: Multi-Mission Capability

The Bell 429 is a twin-engine light helicopter designed for versatility across corporate transport, helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS), and law enforcement operations. The aircraft features seating for seven passengers plus one flight crew, with more cabin space than any other light twin helicopter.

Powered by dual Pratt & Whitney PWC207D1 turbines providing 1,100 shaft horsepower each, the Bell 429 can travel at speeds up to 142 knots with a maximum range of 368 nautical miles. With optional wheeled landing gear, the aircraft can reach speeds of 150 knots.

The Bell 429 delivers enhanced safety margins with a fully-integrated glass cockpit, advanced drive system, and best-in-class WAAS navigation, with single-pilot and optional dual-pilot IFR capability. The aircraft features the Bell BasiX-Pro Integrated Avionics System, specifically designed for twin-engine helicopter operations.

Wide 62-inch side doors and optional rear clamshell doors provide quick access for any mission. The combined cabin volume is 204 cubic feet, with a 130 cubic foot passenger cabin and 74 cubic foot baggage area, featuring flat flooring for patient loading.

More than 500 Bell 429s are currently operating worldwide. The Bell 429 is the first helicopter to use the MSG-3 maintenance process used by commercial airlines, requiring inspection only every 200 flight hours.

MV-75 FLRAA: Revolutionary Military Tiltrotor

The MV-75 FLRAA represents Bell’s next-generation tiltrotor aircraft, selected by the U.S. Army in December 2022 to replace the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The aircraft made its first flight as the V-280 Valor demonstrator on December 18, 2017, and was officially designated MV-75 in May 2025.

The MV-75 is powered by two Rolls-Royce AE 1107F turboshaft engines, each delivering over 6,000 shaft horsepower, enabling a cruise speed of approximately 280 knots and a top speed exceeding 300 knots—significantly faster than traditional helicopters. The aircraft offers a combat radius of approximately 500 to 800 nautical miles and a ferry range exceeding 2,100 nautical miles.

The tiltrotor design features two large-diameter, three-bladed proprotors mounted at the ends of a high-mounted wing. Unlike the V-22 Osprey, the engines are housed in fixed nacelles, with only the proprotors and gearbox assemblies tilting, simplifying the mechanical system.

The MV-75 is designed to provide the U.S. Army with enhanced speed, range, and agility for multi-domain operations. Expected to enter service around 2030, the aircraft will initially equip the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Limited user tests are planned for 2027-2028.

Veris Virtual Reality Training Technology

Bell is also introducing the Veris Virtual Reality Flight Simulator to the Asia-Pacific market for the first time at the airshow. Developed by Bell affiliate TRU Simulation + Training Inc., the simulator provides Bell 505 pilots with high-fidelity training through immersive visuals and a realistic cockpit environment designed to replicate real-world flying scenarios. The advanced training technology represents Bell’s commitment to enhancing pilot proficiency and operational safety through cutting-edge simulation capabilities.

“Bell is honoured to showcase our advanced rotorcraft solutions at Singapore Airshow 2026, where the global aviation community gathers to share innovation and shape the future of flight. The Asia-Pacific region remains a strategic priority for Bell, and we are committed to empowering our customers with the aircraft, training, and support they need to achieve mission success. Our commitment goes beyond delivering world-class aircraft. Bell provides comprehensive, end-to-end solutions—including advanced training programs and robust support infrastructure. Through our global programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and expert instructors, we equip operators and maintenance teams with the knowledge and skills needed to optimise aircraft performance, maximise safety, and ensure operational readiness.”

David Sale, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell

Bell’s presence at Singapore Airshow 2026 builds on the company’s 90-year legacy in aviation innovation and demonstrates its ongoing dedication to the Asia-Pacific market. The Singapore Airshow 2026, one of Asia’s premier aerospace and defense exhibitions, runs until 9 February 2026.

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Photo credits: Bell