20 June 2013
Bell Helicopter has announced its return to the short light single (SLS) engine helicopter market with a new product designed to specifications based on the input of a customer advisory council. Bell Helicopter’s new, five-seat entry-level aircraft is expected to complete its first flight in 2014 with certification to follow as quickly as possible.
John Garrison, president and CEO of Bell Helicopter, said, “Bell Helicopter is no stranger to the short light single market. We developed it nearly 50 years ago with the introduction of the Bell 206 JetRanger and are proud to have produced nearly 7,400 Bell 206 series aircraft since 1967 with over 4,400 remaining in service today. However, we needed to create a new, modernised aircraft to meet requirements of five-seat utility, training, private, and law enforcement operators.”
Bell Helicopter’s new short light single engine helicopter will feature a high visibility, fully-flat cabin floor with five forward-facing seats.
Performance targets include a speed of 125kt (232km), a range of 360-420nm (667km) and a useful load of 1,500lb (608kg).
The new aircraft will be powered by the Turbomeca Arrius 2R engine and will also meet IATA Stage 4 noise targets.
Additional safety enhancing design features are aimed at reducing pilot workload and improving situational awareness.
The new aircraft is expected to achieve first flight in 2014. Bell Helicopter will continue to release information about the product and suppliers throughout its development.
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