Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company, has announced the delivery of a Bell 429 configured for Helicopter Air Ambulance (HAA) to the non-profit helicopter emergency medical service, HALO-Flight, Inc.
“We chose the Bell 429 for its modern design, cost effectiveness throughout its lifecycle and its single pilot IFR capability, which gives us peace of mind when our patients are counting on us,” said Tom Klassen, executive director at HALO-Flight. “We look forward to being able to serve patients and save lives throughout south Texas with this new aircraft.”
HALO-Flight’s mission is to provide medical transport for critically ill or injured persons requiring medical or trauma facilities within its south Texas service area. With bases in Corpus Christi and Alice, Texas, HALO-Flight began operations in September 1987 and in the years since, has transported thousands of patients. HALO-Flight serves an area of 28,000 square miles and a population of more than one million people, requiring both talented people and safe, reliable transportation. The Bell 429 is the only light twin-engine helicopter on the market with true two-litter capability, providing enough cabin space for two medical attendants and two crew members. It is also the first helicopter certified through the MSG-3 process to streamline maintenance, increase safety and availability of the aircraft.
“We are honored that the dedicated men and women at HALO-Flight continue to place their trust in Bell Helicopter,” said Anthony Moreland, managing director of North American sales at Bell Helicopter. “The Bell 429 is continuing to prove itself around the world as a premiere aircraft to support helicopter air medical operations, allowing operators to carry more crew members and patients during life-saving missions.”
One of the most advanced light twin helicopters ever developed, the Bell 429 delivers exceptional speed, range and hover performance, as well as comfort and cost management unmatched by any other aircraft in its category. Equipped with a fully-integrated glass cockpit, advanced drive system and fully-coupled GPS approaches and IFR capability, the Bell 429 offers air medical operators exceptional flight performance. Additional safety features include a collective mounted throttle, damage tolerant hub and rotor system, and energy attenuating seats. A spacious cabin with a flat floor, wide 157 cm (62 in.) side doors and optional rear clam-shell doors provide quick, easy access for patient loading and unloading.
