Bell 505 sees increased success in European corporate segment

Bell Textron signed purchase agreements for five Bell 505s to private operators across Europe. The orders were placed by customers in Spain, Switzerland, Poland, the United Kingdom and Estonia, signalling continued interest in the platform throughout the region.

Danny Maldonado, chief commercial officer, Commercial Sales commented: “Globally, the Bell 505 has been a widespread success in the corporate market, and has made significant strides here in Europe. Last year, Bell delivered the 505th Bell 505. We’re thrilled to build on this progress and continue highlighting the platform throughout this key region.” 

The Bell 505 leverages a Safran Arrius 2R engine, dual channel FADEC, and Garmin G1000H NXi avionics suite and a large, customizable cabin to provide an elevated pilot and passenger experience. The aircraft delivers superb visibility and panoramic views through its glass cockpit, aided by comfortable stadium seating where the rear rows are elevated slightly above the front. The enhanced visibility enables the aircraft to serve as an ideal platform for private flight, pilot training or aerial utility missions. 

At HAI Heli-Expo 2024, Bell announced that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certified the Garmin’s GFC™ 600H flight control system on the Bell 505, enabling European customers to leverage autopilot capabilities for this platform. In addition to EASA approval, Bell received a supplemental type certificate from the FAA for an auxiliary fuel system in February 2024.